Quedgeley based UK employee benefits consulting specialist Gallagher has raised vital funds for the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, where much loved colleague Ben Sykes spent his final weeks following his 2019 diagnosis with bowel cancer.

Their 'Gallagher's Got Talent' competition presented 22 acts over an eight-week period showcasing the musical, performing and entertainment talents of the UK team.

Nick Burns, CEO of Gallagher Benefit Services, said: "While we're all working remotely in lockdown it's important to retain what makes our culture and team both unique and special. We wanted to give something back to the community at a time when it's harder to connect, and charitable giving in memory of Ben was something the team wrapped their arms around.

"Ben was a valued member of our team who sadly passed away last year following a period of illness with bowel cancer. Everyone was united in their drive to raise funds, which Gallagher matched pound for pound, and I was delighted to donate personal funds towards this cause too. The creativity and talent that came out of the competition efforts was a lot of fun, and there were a few entertaining surprises along the way too!" Burns concludes.

Sam Sykes, Ben's wife, said: "There are no words to express how grateful I am and the difference over £10,000 will make to families going through similar experiences goes without saying."

"This contribution goes a long way - 13 weeks of hospice care, three hospice nurses for a month, and 61 nurse kit bags. We've helped multiple families to have the same experience that we had. The hospice enabled us to have six weeks together as a family and he got time to spend time with his friends, which wouldn't have been possible without the round-the-clock care provided by Sue Ryder.

"Ben loved a challenge, so he set me a fundraising target to cover the cost of him being in care, which equates to around £17,000. This is roughly what it would have cost to provide our family with the exceptional specialist care and support during the final weeks of Ben's life. We're currently sitting at around £44,200. The additional support from Gallagher will mean we have raised more than we could have dreamt of."