Vertu Team Members To 'Travel' More Than 500 Miles Between Sites For Charity
Ten members of Vertu Motors plc’s training team are gearing up for a gruelling 563‑mile showdown as they race, ride and row their way across the equivalent distance between the Group’s most far‑flung dealerships - all to raise money for automotive industry charity Ben.
The challenge has been organised by Aftersales Trainer Carrieanne Molloy, who rallied ten members of the department and split the mileage evenly, giving each person just over 56 miles to complete in April.
Participants will clock their miles through a mix of walking, swimming, running, cycling, rowing and even horse riding, creating a month‑long team effort inspired by the spread of Vertu locations across the UK.
Carrieanne said the idea came from wanting to unite a team that works across the country while giving back to a charity that plays a vital role in the industry.
The distance is the equivalent of travelling between Vertu’s northernmost and southernmost dealerships – in Dunfermline and Truro respectively - with their mode of transport allowing everyone to take part on their own terms, but to still contribute to something collectively.
Ben, which provides health, wellbeing and financial support to people across the automotive sector, continues to see rising demand for its services.
Mental‑health concerns now make up a significant proportion of its enquiries, alongside growing calls for financial guidance and crisis support as households face ongoing cost‑of‑living pressures.
The charity supports thousands of automotive employees and their families each year.
Carrieanne said: “The idea came to me when I looked at how spread out our dealerships are. The team is based all over the UK, but this gives us something we can tackle together.
“It’s a proper physical test, but it’s also a way of saying that, as a team, we’re willing to put in the miles for a cause that looks after people in our industry when life gets tough.”
Robert Forrester, Chief Executive at Vertu Motors plc: “What the team is doing here captures something important about Vertu. It’s ambitious, it’s collaborative and it shows real determination. Ben plays a crucial role in our sector, and seeing colleagues come together like this to cover hundreds of miles between them, is the kind of spirit that truly makes a difference.”
Matt Wigginton, Director of Growth & Development, from Ben, said: “The Vertu challenge is a powerful example of community fundraising. The issues faced by our automotive family are becoming increasingly complex and urgent, and fundraising initiatives like this enable us to be there for those struggling, or in crisis.
“The team’s efforts will help us provide life-changing support to those who would otherwise face their challenges alone. We can’t thank the Vertu team enough for their support and we look forward to following their journey!”
Supporters will be able to track the team’s progress and donate throughout April via the JustGiving page here.