Suppliers put pedal to the metal to raise funds

Dozens of our suppliers and colleagues went full throttle to raise thousands of pounds at a special charity go-karting event.

Teams created from across the trade supplies arena donned racing overalls and took to the grid at Daytona Motorsport in Milton Keynes for our first ever fast-paced fundraiser.

The two-day racing extravaganza – which attracted more than 120 suppliers and colleagues – raised £20,000 for our charity of the year, Cancer Research UK.

David Lennon, Commercial Director at Selco, said: “This was the first time we have organised a go-karting fundraiser and it was absolutely fantastic.

“We had teams travel from right across the country to take part and there was plenty of thrilling racing.

“Day one saw competitors post qualifying times ahead of a full dinner and team selection in the evening, while day two was dominated by a three-hour endurance race between the teams.

“We are always looking for innovative ways to engage our suppliers, customers and colleagues in raising money for Cancer Research UK, which is a charity so close to our hearts.

“A huge thank you to our valued suppliers and colleagues who participated and created an event to remember.”

The racers initially took part in a practice session and were split into fast, medium and slow groups to ensure competitive racing when the teams were selected.

As well as the entry fees, further funds were raised for Cancer Research UK courtesy of the teams being able to purchase penalties for rivals and boosts to their own lap tally.

The winning team was CORE Landscape Products, captained by Harvey Keates. Second place went to ACO Water Management UK, skippered by James Galloway, while Keith Brophy's Stonemarket team came home in third.

We have been supporting Cancer Research UK for the last three years and have now raised well over £600,000, which is used to help the charity’s studies into the prevention and treatment of cancer through the work of over 4,000 doctors, nurses and scientists.

A wide range of fundraising activities have taken place involving our colleagues and suppliers over the last year, including gruelling canoeing and cycling challenges.