A CHARITABLE fund in Rugby which has given away over £17million has reached the end of its 70-year lifespan.
The Rugby Group Benevolent Fund has announced that it has formally closed as of the end of December, marking the end of seven decades of charitable support for communities connected to the former Rugby Group, RMC and Cemex UK operations.
Formed in 1955 and established as a registered charity in 1973, the fund has been managed throughout its history by a group of Trustees, all former employees, who have worked to ensure the organisation’s philanthropic legacy reached those who needed it most.
Over the last 70 years, the Fund has distributed more than £17 million to a wide range of beneficiaries including charities, charitable organisations, youth and community groups.
Support has focused on Rugby and other communities surrounding existing or former cement plants, including Southam, Barrington, Kensworth, Lewes, Chinnor, Rochester and South Ferriby.
In the Rugby area, the fund has provided substantial donations to hospices including Myton and Helen Ley House, health facilities such as the Friends of St Cross, family support organisations such as Children in Touch, youth clubs such as the Bradby Club, community groups such as the Benn Partnership Centre, and adult support organisations such as Hope 4 Rugby and Age Concern.
The Fund’s Chair for the last 20 years and a trustee for a total of 25 years, Graeme Fuller, passed away on December 1.
A former HR Director of Rugby Cement, Graeme had put everything in place as required to secure the proper closure of the Fund, but sadly was not able to oversee the final few weeks of its existence.
Rugby Group Benevolent Fund Director and Trustee Ian Southcott said: “It has been a privilege to continue the long-standing tradition of giving that began many decades ago within the Rugby Group.
“The fund’s purpose has always been to support the wellbeing of our local communities and former colleagues, and we are incredibly proud of the positive impact achieved over the past 70 years.
“As the fund reaches the natural conclusion of its journey, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed, partnered with us, or benefited from this work.
“The closure reflects the completion of the Fund’s planned charitable lifecycle, with all remaining commitments now fulfilled.
“The present trustees and their predecessors can be justly proud of the contribution the fund has made over seven decades.”
