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The community behind The Blend has raised £15,000 for industry charity Ben. The Blend is for auto aftermarket representatives, garage owners and key members of staff from all over the UK and Ireland.
The funds were gathered through initiatives, including a charity hike, individual contributions, and proceeds from The Blend’s 2024 annual conference.
Alex Lindley, Director of Garage Hive, said: “We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the hike and to those who generously donated.
“It means so much to see the community come together for such a worthy cause. And, for once, we had decent weather – something of a rarity for a Blend hike. It made the day even more enjoyable and memorable for all involved.”
The Blend Charity Hike, held on 25 September in the Peak District National Park, saw 30 tackle a challenging route which encompassed the Derwent Edge and Ladybower Reservoir.
The non-profit Blend annual conference was held in Birmingham on 28 September. Dean Lomas of DC Lomas and Matt Jeffreys of St John’s Garage and RPM Malvern hosted a clothing auction which featured two bespoke t-shirts and one of Tim Benson’s now industry-renowned shirts, from Oldfields Garage.
Ray Dilsons, event director at The Blend, said: “We are incredibly proud of the collective effort behind this fundraising campaign and the important difference it will make.
“The generosity displayed by everyone involved has been truly inspiring. This incredible achievement highlights the power of coming together for a common cause, and we are proud to support such a vital charity.”