The three month fundraising challenge sets local businesses and groups the task of raising as much money as possible from a starting point of £50. Teams can organise bake sales, sports or social events, karaoke challenges, dress down days – the choices are endless! This can be done through multiple events or just the one, and over the three months or just on one day.

Charlotte Anson, Corporate Relationships Manager at the Hospice, said: “Birmingham is home to some brilliant creative and entrepreneurial individuals and businesses. The Accumulator Challenge is a great way to bring the local business community together through some healthy competition. We’re looking forward to seeing what innovative and creative fundraising ideas our teams come up with to help raise vital funds for the Hospice.”

A number of Birmingham based SMEs and corporations have already pledged their support for the Accumulator Challenge but there is still time for more teams to sign up. This year’s challenge is being sponsored by Lookers Vauxhall Selly Oak.

Dee Allen, brand marketing manager at Lookers Vauxhall Birmingham, said: “We are committed to supporting the communities in which we operate and our Selly Oak dealership is just a stone’s throw away from Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, so we are fully aware of the great work that they do.

“We are proud to be able to support the Hospice and if our help enables them to raise a little more money, then we will be delighted.”

£8 million is needed each year to run Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice which cares and supports for over 1,200 patients and their families in Birmingham and Sandwell living with a terminal illness.