VEKA UK Group has raised £12,191.78 over the past year for Lancashire children’s hospice, Derian House.

Head of Human Resources Gabriela Hammond explains: “We usually choose two charities to support per year, dedicating six months of activities to each. In 2016, we focussed solely on Derian House and I, for one, am amazed at what has been achieved. It was a pleasure to present such a significant contribution to a charity which does invaluable work in Lancashire.

“It’s part of our company’s ethic to give back to the community that we’re a part of, whether that is by engaging in youth enterprise initiatives; careers events; sponsorship for sports teams or events, or by supporting local charities such as Derian House.

“The fundraising activities this year were varied to say the least! We had everything from marathons and merchandise sales, to collection tubs, Christmas card donations and baby sweepstakes. We even sold the furniture from our FIT Show exhibition stand and donated the proceeds.”

Derian House Community fundraiser Sophie Saunders said: “We’re truly overwhelmed by the generosity of the whole team at VEKA and would like to say a huge thank you from everyone here at Derian House Children’s Hospice.

“We know many employees have put their heart and soul into raising funds, from staging cake bakes and dress-down days to challenging themselves on 10k runs and even donning dresses to take part in our Dames on the Run event!

“Children and families are at the very heart of everything we do here at Derian House - from making every moment matter to creating precious memories and supporting families through their loss. We rely on the support of our friends within the community and businesses such as VEKA to ensure we’re here for children and families when they need us most.”