“When the difficult decision was made to cancel this year’s event, we were all understandably upset that it could not go ahead, as we knew it would impact the charities we support at a time of extraordinary need,” said Matt Dooley, VP UK commercial operations.
“So, we kindly asked if they would be willing and able to donate some or all of their sponsorship money to the charities we support, considering the circumstances at hand,” he added.
The response was overwhelmingly positive. Together they pledged just over £169,000 to the charities.
“We are extremely grateful for their generosity and commitment to those less fortunate at such a difficult time,” Dooley said.
The donation means that since the event’s inception in 2014, over £1million has now been raised for children’s charities in the UK.
“Whilst we had not anticipated reaching such a milestone in this way, it is a fantastic outcome and a positive message for the charities at a difficult time,” Dooley said.
The charities receiving a donation are: in London, Richard House Children’s Hospice, Mudchute Inner City Farm, Community Links and the East End Community Foundation. In Pembrokeshire, where the company’s refinery is located, Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity and the Tanyard Youth Project.