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Beetle-based fundraising

843. Derek Holmes

Derek Holmes, from the Wirral, has raised over £50,000 for charitable causes through sponsored events involving his VW Beetle car.

He was inspired to base his fundraising efforts around his Beetle car to engage people in his community and act as a focal point for collections. His creative efforts, such as customising his car, have inspired hundreds of people to donate over towards charities including ‘St John’s Ambulance’ and ‘Comic Relief’, and has strengthened ties in his local community. His latest efforts to fundraise for Christmas lights for his area has so far raised £16,000.

In a personal letter to Derek, Prime Minister Theresa May said:

“The hundreds of people that you have inspired by creatively decorating your VW Beetle is a testament of your remarkable positivity and dedication to your local community. You should feel enormously proud of having brought people closer together to fundraise for a variety of charitable causes in a very engaging and inclusive way.”

Derek was presented with his award at the switch-on event for the Hoylake Christmas lights he has fundraised for by Margaret Greenwood, MP for The Wirral.

Margaret Greenwood, MP for The Wirral, said:

“Derek’s distinctive Volkswagen Beetle is well known locally, particularly on the streets of Hoylake and Meols. It is renowned for its creative and imaginative decorations which change according to what Derek is fundraising for.

Recently it was dressed up in support of the Poppy Appeal. Tonight, of course, the theme is celebrating Christmas. The Beetle also gets decorated to reflect events that are happening locally and nationally, such as the Hoylake Festival of Firsts and major sporting events. It is often stationed by the entrance to Queens Park, where it is impossible not to notice it when walking or driving past.

Derek has for so long been a tireless supporter of the local community. He really does deserves this recognition. Well done Derek, and thank you for all you do for Hoylake.”

Derek said:

“I’m overwhelmed to be given this award. It’s nice to be recognised for what myself and others are doing for the local community. It has been the best year yet to be involved in Hoylake Christmas lights. We are always looking for more volunteers and people can contact us on the Hoylake Christmas Lights facebook page or at hohoho@hoylakevillage.org.uk if they’d like to get involved in the future.”

 

The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community.

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