News

Press Release - 8 February 2008

BEN Boost At ADF Bash

BEN, the Automotive Industry Charity, was supported at a level not seen for many years at the Automotive Distribution Federation dinner in December held at the Hilton Birmingham Hotel.

The parts aftermarket proved it had been listening to BEN’s pleas for help when it raised an outstanding amount in donations at its annual dinner. The evening’s fund raising began with a presentation by the Independent Factors Association (IFA) of a cheque for £3,000. Newly installed ADF President, Quintin Comforth, accepted the cheque, on behalf of BEN, from IFA Chairman, Andy Buttfield.

The traditional BEN envelope collection garnered nearly £5000 which, when the Gift Aided tax relief is added, totals in excess of £6,230. During the course of the evening a cheque for £2,000 was presented by David Bevan of Euro Car Parts to Gerard Barclay, BEN’s Chief Executive.

When the final total was announced at the end of the evening, ADF Chief Executive, Brian Spratt was able to reveal that another substantial donation of £2000 had been received from a member company, who did not wish to be identified.

The grand total for the evening therefore totalled £13,231.76. “This is an amazing amount” said Brian Spratt, “Probably the largest total for more than ten years. It really shows that the independent parts aftermarket knows where its heart is, and that its members are determined to help as much as possible in BEN’s time of need.”

BEN’s Director of Fundraising and Communications, Charles Davis added, “What a fantastic way to finish 2007, we are very grateful indeed to all those companies and individuals who have supported BEN so generously and we look forward to continued support during 2008.

Further information & Picture:
Lorna Russell, Media Relations Officer, BEN
T: 01344 294765 M: 07920 138187 Fax 01344 622042
lorna.russell@ben.org.uk

Editors’ Notes
BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry.
Website: www.ben.org.uk