A Berkshire funeral team swam, cycled and hiked across 2021 to raise £10,000 in sponsorships for those with life-limiting illnesses.
E Sargeant & Son Funeral Directors, supported by its sister brands Miles & Daughters Funeral Directors and Richard Lloyd Funeral Services, organised a number of initiatives to fundraise for Thames Hospice, including a 57-mile ride on a fold-up bicycle and a 100-mile hike and swim.
Mark Clements, Regional Support Manager of Funeral Partners South, said: “It’s fantastic to see the E Sargeant & Son, Miles & Daughters and Richard Lloyd teams reach their ambitious goals thanks to donations from the generous families we serve, local community groups and the Funeral Partners community fund.
“It’s uplifting to see the amount of money we can raise, especially as many fundraising activities weren’t possible last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We can’t wait to raise another £10,000 in 2022 to continue supporting the invaluable work of Thames Hospice.”
2021 marked the fourth year in a five-year pledge by E Sargeant & Son to raise £10,000 annually for Thames Hospice, which had been previously achieved through sponsored events including a climb over the O2 arena by Funeral Director Abbie Reeve.
E Sargeant & Son showed remarkable resolve in 2020 by meeting its £10,000 pledge despite the majority of its sponsored activities being cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Mark said: “It was a huge set back, but E Sargeant & Son are a dedicated bunch, and we have caring clients, generous communities and a wonderful network to support us every step of the way.”
The E Sargeant & Son funeral homes in Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead are preparing to raise another £10,000 for the final year in their five-year pledge, with plans for a jazz-themed lunch, quiz night and much more.
Jane Symmons, Head of Major Gifts at Thames Hospice, said: “We have been fortunate to have E Sargeant & Son supporting us for a number of years and are always amazed by the dedication and enthusiasm they give to the hospice, whether swimming in cold waters or riding a Brompton bike.
“The future of Thames Hospice depends on the incredible support of companies like Funeral Partners, and we are extremely proud of this partnership. Thank you to every member of staff for your continued support which allows us to care for patients and families facing such difficult times.”
Sam Kershaw, Chief Executive Officer at Funeral Partners, added: “It’s incredible to think E Sargeant & Son, with the help of colleagues at their sister brands, has raised £40,000 for Thames Hospice over the last four years, despite the challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I wish the funeral teams the best of luck in going all out for the last year of the five-year pledge and I look forward to seeing what plans they have for the year ahead.”