Giant Leap Forward For Carlisle Youth Zone Fundraising

Fundraising for Carlisle Youth Zone has taken a giant leap forward thanks to a cheque presentation by Olympic gold medalist, and world record breaking long-jumper, Jonathan Edwards.

Edwards, an ambassador for the Benfield Charitable Trust, handed over the donation to Kelly Conway - fundraising manager at Carlisle Youth Zone.

The Benfield Charitable Trust was formed in 1990 and donates 5% of Benfield Motor Group profits to worthy causes. It has distributed over £500,000 to charities and communities over the last five years and has a grant making committee formed of family members.

The trust supports social welfare, particularly the relief of need, hardship and distress, and development work supporting young people in the communities where Benfield is involved. And with two car dealerships in the Carlisle area, it was fitting for Benfield to lend its support to Carlisle Youth Zone.

The Youth Zone recently received its official opening by Tim Loughton - Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for Children and Families. Located in the heart of Carlisle city centre, the Youth Zone is open 52 weeks a year. Young people aged between eight and 21 years old, or up to 25 for people with disabilities, can become a member for just £5 per year and enjoy the modern facilities for as little as 50p per visit.

Capital funding for this state-of-the-art facility was provided by myplace but the Youth Zone relies heavily on public and private sector funding - such as this important contribution from Benfield.

Sue Pennycook, Carlisle Youth Zone Chief Executive, said: "This is a fantastic, and very welcome, gesture by the Benfield Charitable Trust - to receive such a large sum of money on behalf of the trust from an Olympic legend like Jonathan Edwards is just great news for Carlisle Youth Zone. This is a prime example of businesses engaging with, and for the benefit of, the local community."

Matthew Squires, Benfield Charitable Trust said: "We are delighted to support Carlisle Youth Zone and the Rural Outreach Programme. Benfield is a family owned business with family values at the heart of everything we do. The Youth Zone is set to form a central and valued part of the region's community activity and Benfield is proud to play our part in its future development and success."