Time Finance invited its peers in the SME finance industry peers as well as intermediary partners to take part in its first annual charity football tournament.
The five-a-side football tournament was held to raise funds for the business’ nominated charity, the Ben Saunders Foundation, which provides holidays and vital support for children and young adults living with cancer.
Held on Thursday 3 April, the inaugural football tournament took place at the Power League Manchester Central and hosted almost 20 teams from lenders and finance brokers across the country.
Money raised will be donated to the Ben Saunders Foundation, which is based in the South West close to Time Finance’s headquarters in Bath. The charity was founded by Ben Saunders, who passed away from a rare form of cancer in 2020.
Driven by Ben’s ambition to support young people living with cancer, the charity has launched Cotswold holiday spots, Ben’s Retreat and Ben’s Lodge, which have helped to give respite to over 400 families to-date.
Ed Rimmer, CEO at Time Finance, said: “It’s been heart-warming to see the industry come together to raise money for such a fantastic cause. The Ben Saunders Foundation was nominated by our colleague Tom Barton from our Bath office, who was a close friend of Ben’s, and that makes our fundraising efforts all the more important.
“It is a wonderful charity, which gives so many families a well-deserved break from the difficult circumstances they face with a cancer diagnosis. One of Time Finance’s company values is ‘putting people first’, and we hope this tournament can be the first of many to come. Our fundraising efforts are still ongoing, so for anybody wishing to donate they can do so via our fundraising page.”
Tom Saunders, Ben’s father and chairman of Ben Saunders Foundation, added: “Ben was not only a remarkable young man but an exceptional footballer, and he played for Bath City FC by the time he was 16. Ben’s talent on the field was matched by his sportsmanship and determination to be the best that he could, but Ben’s legacy extends far beyond football.
“When he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at just 18, he faced a challenge that nobody should need to face, with the same courage and resilience that she showed on the field. Throughout his journey Ben remained positive and focused on helping others, this spirit led him to create his foundation.
“Since the start, the foundation has now helped 400 families from all over the UK, and we offer a chance to create precious memories and find some respite from their challenges. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Time Finance for supporting the Ben Saunders Foundation this year. May the best team win!”
Donations can be made via Time Finance’s Charity Football Tournament fundraising page.
