NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield recently announced their intention to sponsor The Gusbourne Run this July, an event organised by Sporting Events UK. The Gusbourne Run is a unique, picturesque event for Kent taking place within the vineyards themselves. The day is the perfect opportunity for local runners, sightseers and wine drinkers to come together to experience a 10k and 5k.
NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield partners Doug Jackson, George Ashby & Darren Smith also recognised The Gusbourne Run as the perfect event to help fundraise for one of their affiliated charities; Dandelion Time.
Located near West Farleigh, Dandelion Time gives children and families time and space to love and trust again, as well as time to heal from emotional trauma and abuse, rebuild confidence and strengthen relationships. The charity recognises the importance of being in a peaceful natural environment, absorbing children in calming hands on activities. Therapists guide families to harness the healing powers of the natural world. They do this by using wood, wool and clay, caring for animals and growing and eating healthy food thus laying down new positive memories.
NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield have been supporting Dandelion Time since last year following the NFU Mutual’s Agency Giving Fund, and have continued to volunteer and fundraise for them since. The agency has managed to secure thirteen runners from across their three offices to participate in the Gusbourne Run and fundraise for Dandelion Time in the build up to the event. Amongst the runners are partners Doug Jackson, George Ashby & Darren Smith.
On the donation from NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield, Dandelion Time’s Fundraising Coordinator Jo Challis said:
“Dandelion Time are grateful for the support from NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield. As a small charity, having this support will make such a huge difference in transforming the lives of abused and neglected children in Kent. Since the pandemic incidents of domestic violence have increased by 50% and this donation will directly transform the lives of vulnerable children.”
NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield Senior Partner and Gusbourne Runner Doug Jackson said of the sponsorship:
“Our team will be fundraising for Dandelion Time, an incredible charity that offers help to children with challenging emotional issues. We’re really pleased to be supporting a variety of great local organisations within one event as we continue to be an advocate for supporting our community.”
NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden and Whitfield have also donated their events stand to Dandelion Time so that they can have a prominent position in the mini event village of the day of the run, in order to build awareness for the charity.
A JustGiving page was recently launched to help the thirteen runners fundraise in the leadup to the event. Full details can be found here:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nfu-mutual-atw
The Gusbourne Run takes place on the Sunday 24 July and is open to all entries above 18. Every finisher will get a great medal to mark the occasion and with wine tasting stops throughout the run, this will be an event that appeals to many. To book your place on either the 10k or 5k or to learn more about the event, click here: https://www.sportingeventsuk.com/enter-an-event/the-gusbourne-10k-5k
You can also follow Gusbourne, Sporting Events UK, NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield & Dandelion Time across their social channels, to learn more about the event.
This story was taken from the latest issue of Vineyard. For more up-to-date and in-depth reports for winemakers and growers in Great Britain, read our latest issue here and subscribe here.
