Willerby and Swift Raise Over £5,000 for HEY Children’s University at Charity Sports Day

In a remarkable show of community spirit, two of the UK’s top holiday home manufacturers, Willerby and Swift, joined forces to host a charity sports day that raised over £5,000 for the Hull and East Yorkshire (HEY) Children’s University. The event, aptly named the “Battle of the Holiday Homes,” took place on July 21, 2026, at Hymers College in Hull, where employees and their families enjoyed a day filled with fun activities and friendly competition.

Event Highlights

The charity sports day attracted many participants who contributed a small entry donation, allowing them to partake in various activities at no extra cost. With sunny weather setting the perfect stage, families engaged in traditional sports day events such as tug of war and bean bag toss. There were also opportunities for creativity with face painting and arts and crafts, ensuring a fun-filled experience for everyone.

Group of smiling footballers with medals on grassy pitch

The main event was a thrilling five-a-side football match, which showcased the friendly rivalry between Willerby and Swift. Participants earned points for their respective teams throughout the day, ultimately resulting in Swift being crowned the overall champion of the sports day. This competitive spirit not only entertained but also fostered camaraderie among colleagues and their families.

Community Support

The success of the event was made possible by the generous support of 16 local businesses, with main sponsors including Columbus and Leisure Furnishings. Their contributions helped create a memorable day for hundreds of families, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in supporting local causes.

“This sports day showcased the fantastic community spirit across both businesses, and we would like to thank everyone who gave their time, energy, and support to make the day such a memorable success,” said Susan Pender, Director of People at Willerby. The atmosphere was filled with joy and laughter, as families gathered to support a cause that resonates deeply with both companies.

The Importance of HEY Children’s University

The funds raised during the sports day will significantly benefit HEY Children’s University, a charity dedicated to inspiring children and young people across Hull and East Yorkshire.

Alisa Tomlinson, Community and Events Fundraiser at HEY Children’s University, expressed gratitude for the support received:

“Every pound donated helps us provide children and young people across Hull and East Yorkshire with inspiring learning opportunities beyond the classroom, giving them the confidence to discover new interests, develop new skills, and broaden their horizons.”

This charity plays a crucial role in offering young people opportunities that may not otherwise be available, helping them to grow and thrive in a supportive environment. The success of the sports day not only raised funds but also highlighted the commitment of local businesses to invest in the futures of young individuals in their community.

Reflections on the Day

Katy Rhoades, Health and Wellbeing Advisor at Swift, remarked on the significance of the event:

“It was fantastic to work alongside Willerby to deliver such a fun and meaningful event for our colleagues and their families. The atmosphere throughout the day was incredible, and it was wonderful to see so many people coming together to support a cause that means so much to both of our organisations.”

The positive energy and community spirit displayed throughout the day serve as a reminder of the impact that collective efforts can have.