For the fifth consecutive year the Group has supported the Variety Club Children's charity. Charities are often the forgotten casualties in difficult economic times. However our fundraising activities and donations demonstrate our people's commitment to supporting the Variety Club through these difficult times.
During 2009 our employees, contractors and suppliers took part in dress-down days, sports events and many sponsored activities to raise funds which meant the Group was able to donate its tenth and eleventh sunshine coaches. Petts Wood playgroup in Kent and Mellers Primary School in Nottingham received the coaches in June. Both schools cater for children aged between 3 and 11 with varying disabilities, and these coaches ensure the children have the opportunity not only to explore their local areas but also to attend much needed extracurricular activities.
Malcolm Brenner, Variety Club Sunshine Coach Chairman said:
"The Variety Club's Coaches ensure children can interact with the world around them in an environment of fun, entertainment and education, whilst ensuring our most precious cargo is transported as safely as possible. With the ongoing support of Crest Nicholson, the Variety Club can continue to highlight that being disabled or disadvantaged need not be a barrier to achieving the most out of life."
In addition, Crest Nicholson made formal charitable donations of £2,000 in 2009 (2008 £41,546). No political donations were made.
Crest Nicholson has for the second year part funded the Variety Club's Christmas event at Gullivers Land theme park, Milton Keynes. The Group donated £6,000 to allow 2,000 children from across the country to attend this festive event. The day saw the children have free access to the park, lunch and each received a toy from Santa Claus.