Farr Vintners back Benevolent fundraiser

UK wine wholesaler, Farr Vintners, has stepped up to support a fundraising challenge which will see the chairman of drinks trade charity The Benevolent visit all 91 of the UK’s league football grounds in just 14 days.

Chris Porter will set off on his ‘Around the Grounds in 14 Days’ challenge on May 12 using a combination of train, tram and pedal-bike to visit all of the UK’s premier league football grounds starting at Norwich City Football Club and finishing at Crystal Palace Football Club on Sunday, 25 May.

The chairman hoped to raise at least £10,000 for the charity, which supports those in need within the drinks industry, with Farr Vintners this week pledging to match the funds raised.

He said “I have been completely overwhelmed by the support from the trade for this mad venture and the gesture from Farr Vintners is simply wonderful. Of course, what better opportunity for all their competitors, and everyone else, to sponsor me and therefore cost Farr even more money!”

Porter, who works for the Porter & Laker division at drinks logistics specialists JF Hillebrand, said his challenge has been designed to highlight the importance of logistics, environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility to the UK drinks industry, as well as raise funds for The Benevolent.

David Cox, chief executive of The Benevolent added: “As we roll out our ‘Here to Help’ campaign informing the drinks trade of what we do and who we help, this incredible, and completely bonkers fundraising challenge from my chairman will really help us broaden our reach to those members of our trade that are less fortunate and need practical, emotional or financial support.”

During the Challenge Chris will travel to the station closest to each football league ground, then make the journey from station to ground and back on pedal bike thereby minimising his carbon footprint.

Benevolent supporters and beneficiaries around the country are being invited to cheer Chris on along the route and companies are being urged to organise their own fundraising initiatives on one of the days of the challenge in May.

For more information and to make a donation visit aroundthegrounds2014.com