June 14 2012 saw Thatcham Research, the motor insurers' automotive research centre; host its annual Repair Focus event, with the aim of highlighting some of the unique repair challenges posed by the very latest top selling and technologically advanced vehicles.

To raise funds for BEN, Thatcham Research took the initiative and asked all the exhibitors at the event to make a donation to BEN instead of making payment for the stand space. This raised approximately £2,800 which will help present and past employees in the industry in times of need.

Iain Wallace, Communications Executive at Thatcham Research said, "A great mix of people, full seminar sessions and a busy, vibrant show probably made this years' Focus event our best yet - what's more it was really pleasing to be able to call on the support of a wide range of organisations within our the industry, in raising money for such a worthwhile cause."

Tracy Brislen, BEN's Regional Development Manager commented "It's always a pleasure to work with our friends at Thatcham Research. Inviting us to the Repair Focus event each year, to network with the delegates and exhibitors and further raise BEN's profile throughout the accident repair sector of our industry is hugely valuable to BEN. That they came up with this fundraising initiative this year, it is testament to their commitment to continue developing new ways to support BEN's work. It really encompassed BEN's philosophy of everyone pulling together to support families connected to our industry. So, a big thank you to Thatcham Research and all the exhibitors for their donations and fantastic final sum that they raised. "