Businesses came together through Be Richmond to raise £4,500 in an online auction for The Poppy Factory.

Auction lots were provided by 25 businesses and organisations that are based in Richmond, including software developers, exhibition companies, hotels, retailers, restaurants and pubs. They contributed everything from rugby tickets and afternoon teas to panto tickets and an original oil painting.

The funds raised by the Be Richmond members will help The Poppy Factory support more wounded, injured and sick veterans back into meaningful employment in communities across the UK.

Gabriel Irwin, Vice Chairman of Be Richmond and owner of Foot Solutions, said: “When we canvassed our 300 plus members, it was clear that supporting local charities was a key objective. Given the Richmond link and that 2018 marks the centenary of the First World War Armistice, we thought that the auction would be a good way to highlight the excellent work The Poppy Factory does in helping veterans with physical and mental health conditions get back into meaningful work.”

Deirdre Mills Chief Executive of The Poppy Factory added: “We are delighted to have had the backing of Be Richmond and I want to offer my thanks to each of the many local businesses who have been so generous in their support for The Poppy Factory. The funds they have raised will make a real difference to the lives of wounded, injured and sick veterans who are looking for a way back into sustained employment.”