News

Press Release - 20 May 2008

Car Dealer Magazine

The first motor trader has signed up to help Car Dealer Magazine raise as much money for BEN, the Automotive Industry Charity. HS Cars of Chichester, West Sussex, have agreed to take on the baton in the Trading Places challenge. The feature has been running since April when the magazine was launched and is essentially an elaborate relay race between car dealers – the feature will run for 12 issues.

Mark Boyt, of HS Cars, took over the baton from Car Dealer Magazine which sold a Ford Fiesta, donated by Autotrade-mail for £695. Bosses at the trade website were so impressed that the Magazine achieved such a good price they rounded the value up to £1000. Now, its Mark’s turn who said “I’ve been reading the feature in the magazine and when Autotrade-mail got in touch I knew that I could help. It’s for a good cause and we’ll be doing all we can to increase the pot of cash.”

Mark has put the money into purchasing a Kia Clarus saloon, V reg, with 70,000 miles and one owner. He said, “It’s just arrived and it’s a very tidy example. I am confident that we can get £1,495 for it.”

James Baggott, Editorial Director of Car Dealer Magazine is asking dealers across the country to support him in this challenge, saying “If any dealers think they’ve got what it takes to increase our pot of cash for BEN, then I want to hear from them. We know that everyone is busy, but it’s for a good cause. After all, what’s the profit of one car going to do to your bottom line, and just think of those people you could be helping?”

Charles Davis, Director of Fundraising & Communications, is delighted with this unusual initiative commenting, “When James’ approached us with his proposal to coincide with the launch of his magazine we were very exciting by his vision. This is great story for BEN as we are increasing awareness of BEN to a key target group and at the same time bringing in much needed funding. We are looking forward to the next issue in July.”


 

Further information & pictures contact:
Lorna Russell at BEN on 01344 294765 M: 07920 138187 Fax 01344 622042 lorna.russell@ben.org.uk Visit the Car Dealer website: www.cardealermagazine.co.uk

Visit the Car Dealer website: www.cardealermagazine.co.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