Willerby and Swift join forces to raise over £5,000 for HEY Children’s University

Two of the UK’s leading holiday home manufacturers, Willerby and Swift, have come together for a charity sports day that raised over £5,000 for Hull and East Yorkshire (HEY) Children’s University.

The “Battle of the Holiday Homes” event took place at Hymers College in Hull, bringing together employees and their families for a sports day-inspired celebration filled with games, entertainment and fundraising activities. 

The collaborative event was organised to raise vital funds for HEY Children’s University, a charity that both companies proudly support. Families gave a small entry donation and were able to enjoy all the activities on offer at no extra cost. 

The sunny weather set the scene for traditional sports favourites, including tug of war and bean bag toss, alongside face painting and arts and crafts.

The headline attraction was a competitive five-a-side football match, where the friendly rivalry between Willerby and Swift took centre stage.

Throughout the day, guests earned points for their company by taking part in games and challenges, with Swift ultimately crowned the overall sports day champion.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of 16 sponsoring businesses, including main sponsors Columbus and Leisure Furnishings, whose backing helped create a memorable day for hundreds of families.

As well as bringing colleagues together outside the workplace, the event raised over £5,000 for HEY Children’s University, helping the charity continue its work inspiring children and young people across Hull and East Yorkshire.

Susan Pender, Director of People at Hull-based Willerby, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be a continued supporter of HEY Children’s University and this event was a great example of the amazing things that can happen when people come together. 

“This sports day showcased the fantastic community spirit across both businesses and we would like to thank everyone who gave their time, energy and support to make the day such a memorable success.”

Katy Rhoades, Health and Wellbeing Advisor at Swift, which is based in Cottingham, East Yorkshire, said: “It was fantastic to work alongside Willerby to deliver such a fun and meaningful event for our colleagues and their families. 

“The atmosphere throughout the day was incredible and it was wonderful to see so many people coming together to support a cause that means so much to both of our organisations.”

Alisa Tomlinson, Community and Events Fundraiser at HEY Children’s University, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this event possible. From the employees and volunteers to the sponsors, stallholders and entertainment providers, so many people generously gave their time, expertise and support to maximise the funds raised.

“Every pound donated helps us provide children and young people across Hull and East Yorkshire with inspiring learning opportunities beyond the classroom, giving them the confidence to discover new interests, develop new skills and broaden their horizons.”