Close Brothers Motor Finance has exceeded its previous year's charity fundraising record by raising £33,500 for Make-A-Wish and Cancer Research UK.

Close Brothers Motor Finance teams across the UK took part in a range of challenging fundraising activities including a ‘Walk into the Light’ sponsored walk, a Peak District hike, bike rides, meditation sessions, and bake sales.

The Scottish office took part in a beach clean-up as Sevenoaks made blood donations at their local drop-in centre, and teams across the UK organised foodbank collections.

Sheffield, Stoke, and Wales all took the ‘step challenge’ to heart by doing sponsored walks, and the Peterborough office alone racked up more than 500,000 steps.

The Bury branch organised a Motor-wide hike of Hadrian’s Wall, raising over £2400 in the process.

Teams also took the chance to rest and relax; the second office in Doncaster organised quizzes and competitions, meditation, and massages, while Manchester was visited by a fluffy labradoodle to help everyone de-stress.

Individuals across the firm have gone the extra mile to raise money in inspirational ways.

Martin Smith, an account manager in Belfast, battled through 5 triathlons in 5 days. With his help, the Northern Ireland team alone raised an impressive £5,000.

Meanwhile Glenn Matthews, head of operations, is taking on 10 different 10k races in 10 months and aimed to be four races down by the end of charity week.

Rebecca McNeil, chief executive contributed hand-knitted hats for premature babies.

McNeil said: “This is my second year doing Charity Week at Close Brothers and I’m always inspired and amazed by the lengths the teams go to for these amazing causes.

“It’s fantastic to have beaten last year’s target, and I’m proud of all my colleagues for going that extra mile in creating unique and fun ways of raising money to support those in need.”