As has been tradition for over 50 years, the LMB once again came together in December 2024 to raise money for charity with the annual Christmas raffle. Each year, a new charity is chosen, and this year over £1400 was collected in aid of Pets As Therapy. We were delighted to be visited by Pets As Therapy volunteer Charles and one of his dogs last week, where they were presented with a cheque by LMB Director Jan Löwe.
Pets As Therapy is a national charity which is determined to ensure that everyone has access to the companionship of a friendly pet, no matter their circumstances. With over 4000 volunteers, Pets As Therapy offer therapeutic visits to enhance wellbeing in a wide variety of locations, including care homes, hospitals, prisons, and schools.
Since 2023, Pets As Therapy has made frequent visits to the LMB, to allow people to meet Charles and one of his friendly dogs. Participants enjoy taking a break from their lab bench or desk to meet Charles and his dogs for a visit in the LMB’s garden.
The Christmas Raffle has been a staple event in the LMB’s calendar since the early 1970s. Across the LMB, people enthusiastically get involved by donating prizes and buying tickets, before convening together for the prize draw. Since 2000, the LMB has raised over £32,000 for local and national charities.
More recently, the LMB’s fundraising efforts have been supported by the Craft and Chatter Group, who make and sell a large variety of items. For the 2024 sale, makes included cross-stitch art, gift tags, crochet figurines, and cards. This helped add almost £400 to the total amount raised.
The LMB would like to extend thanks to all those who have helped make these fundraising events a success.