Armstrong Watson have been crowned winners of Oak Tree Animals’ Charity’s first annual Battle of the Shops competition.
Businesses were challenged to work alongside the organisation’s charity shop teams to see who could raise the most money in just 24 hours.
The competition, held on June 30, saw businesses and charity shops raise raise a whopping £5120.65 across all shops throughout the day.
Armstrong Watson raised a total of £1615.29 at the Carlisle St Nicholas Street charity shop – bagging them the title as winners and a trophy.
Volunteers from Oak Tree’s Hexham Shop contributed £543 while HSBC UK worked with the English Street shop team to raise £654 and HMRC, supported by the Seaham Charity shop, raised £1232.39.
The competition would not have been possible without the support of the participating businesses.
Caroline Johnson, General Manager of the charity said: “We are so grateful to Armstrong Watson, HMRC, HSBC UK, and the Hexham shop volunteers for their dedication and enthusiasm.
“We loved visiting each of the shops and seeing each team’s commitment to making a tangible difference to the lives of local animals in need.
“The Battle of the Shops competition has been a tremendous success, and we are thrilled with the remarkable amount of £5120.65 raised collectively across our shops on this day.
“We want to encourage everyone to show their support and help raise vital funds for animals in need.
“We have already received a lot of interest from local businesses who want to get involved next year and try to win the Battle of the Shops title and are hoping that we will see some even more amazing activities next year.
“The date for 2024 is yet to be decided, so stay tuned for updates on how you can get involved and make a positive impact to the lives of animals.”
“The commitment and passion displayed by the participating businesses and shop volunteers have truly made a difference, and Oak Tree Animals’ Charity extends its gratitude to each and every individual involved.
!Together, we can continue to support animal welfare and create a brighter future for animals in need.”
The Armstrong Watson team won by serving free teas and coffees in the shop, running a raffle to win a Carlisle United FC signed shirt, as well as helping with customers and sales in the shop.
Stephen McCullough, partner for Armstrong Watson said in a video interview on the day: “We’re proud to be supporting Oak Tree Animals’ Charity with our Carlisle Team who are a majority of dog owners ourselves.
“We know how important the Charity is to the local community. We just want to raise as much awareness and, most importantly, as much money as possible for the Charity.”
Businesses are encouraged to get in touch and join next year’s Battle of the Shops competition. For more information contact corporate@oaktreeanimals.org.uk
