150 firms for 150 years of charity

From left, Amy Blundell, Rob Binns, Chelsea Chard and Rachel Simpson on Preston Railway Station marking the 150th anniversary of Barnardos

Volunteers approached commuters and asked them to sign up their companies with pledges for time, skills, services, cash or products.

The campaign called ‘150 and Always’ has been launched to mark the 150th anniversary of the charity which has helped transform the lives of millions of disadvantaged children in the UK.

Helpers will also be actively at work at the station from today until Thursday to speak to people about the initiative.

They will also be running an unwanted handbag appeal with the aim of collecting 150 bags to sell in Barnardo’s local charity shops.

“It is wonderful to see the business community in Lancashire coming together to support us in this way to mark our milestone 150th anniversary,” said Paul Wilcox, assistant director for children’s services at Barnardo’s in Lancashire.

“The pledges from businesses will make a real difference to our organisation and the work we carry out supporting and caring for vulnerable children here in Lancashire.

“We’re excited to see what some of the pledges will  be.”

Rachel Simpson, of Bird Design and Marketing, said: “The campaign is gathering momentum and already just over 100 businesses are pledging their support for our Barnardo’s campaign.

“The response from companies across Lancashire has been tremendous and we haven’t even officially launched the programme yet!”

Businesses already signed up include training company Dale Carnegie, which is carrying out special coaching sessions for Barnardo’s staff and a group of local young people, Fulwood-based Blush Digital and Leyland-based Sun Dry  Video.