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Businessman’s return-to-work profit pledge nets £1,145 for Severn Hospice

A Shropshire-based businessman has handed over a cheque to Severn Hospice for £1,145 – having exceeded his original fundraising target.

Andrew Bowcott, who runs oven valeting firm Ovenu Telford South, pledged ten per cent of his first three months takings to the independent charity after reopening his business in mid-May following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

The 40-year-old had only been trading a matter of months when he was forced to mothball his fledgling enterprise due to Coronavirus.

Following a considerable increase in bookings since his return to work, Andrew has raised £1,145 for the hospice – almost 15 per cent more than his initial £1,000 target.

He said: “I’m delighted to have raised such a fantastic amount and wish to thank my clients who have both supported this business and the hospice through a very challenging period.

“It’s not going to stop here. I’ve really enjoyed helping Severn Hospice and plan to do more fundraising, so watch this space.”

The hospice provides free specialist support and care to more than 2,000 families a year across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid Wales who are living with an incurable illness.

Andrew, who along with his wife Emma, was widowed at a young age, added: “Dealing with the loss of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences. This dreadful virus has highlighted how vital our health workers are and I was determined to do something positive to show my gratitude for all that they do.”

Hannah Gamston, area fundraiser of Severn Hospice, said: “We’re amazed at Andrew’s generosity and can’t thank him enough for his support.

“Andrew’s donation will make a real difference to our families; we simply couldn’t do what we do without supporters like him.”

Rik Hellewell, the founder and managing director of Ovenu, said: “I’m extremely proud of Andrew and everything he has achieved over the past months - both dealing with the challenges of COVID-19 and in reopening his business safely and responsibly.

“He should be commended for his community sprit and in giving something back to a cause that makes such a difference to so many at the most difficult of times.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by News Gathering .