We’re super proud at Bromwich Hardy to be one of the principal sponsors of the amazing rowing crew. Here, Brightsides skipper Rod Adlington has a simple message to everyone as the crew get ready for the start of their Atlantic Row challenge on January 3: Thank you – and merry Christmas to you all.
One of the truly amazing things about our great Atlantic row is the way the Brightsides have captured the imagination – and support – of people all over the country.
As we prepare to dip our oars into the great ocean for the first time and set off from Lanzarote to Antigua, the huge amount of goodwill we have been shown really has given us a massive boost.
We know that every single stroke of the 3,000 mile journey will be tough – but the thought of raising so much money for Get a-Head and Meningitis Now and the fantastic backing of all of our sponsors, supporters and donors is driving us on.
One example comes from Staffordshire-based crisp producer Just Crisps and Just Oil. They have produced 40,000 special edition packets of crisps with stickers to raise awareness of our row, including a QR code which enables people to donate directly to the cause.
They are now in the process of being distributed to pubs, farm shops, delis and independent retailers across the UK.
I’ve known company owner Anthony Froggart for some 15 years and cannot say how grateful the whole team is for his amazing support. What better excuse do you need for buying a bag of his crisps and tucking in?
Similarly, we were bowled over to receive a £10,000 donation from Usk Vale Poultry, a turkey producer from Monmouth. I have known their owner Nick a long time and our challenge has clearly struck a chord with him. It’s an astonishingly generous gesture and just pays tribute to what a great chap he is.
All over the country people have been chipping in with support and donations in what has been, for me, the most humbling display of goodwill and kindness I have ever known.
As we set off, on January 3, you will all be in our thoughts. You have made this the greatest experience of all our lives.
Until then can I wish you all the best, merriest and most wonderful Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous new year. We can’t wait to see you all when we get back.
And if you can, please do support us in any way you can. Until next time, happy days.
As well as donating through our website, you can also donate via text message:
Text ROW1 to 70191 to donate £10
Text ROW3 to 70191 to donate £30