
Our Place In The Community
Wayne Hayhurst explains why Raymond James Ribble Valley continues to support local communities
“Longridge is the place I am proud to call home,” says Wayne Hayhurst, branch principal at Raymond James Ribble Valley (RJRV). “When I was considering where to establish my business there really was no other choice. We now offer our services to over 500 households in the Ribble Valley and we are proud of the communities we serve and our place in those communities.”
From marquee events embracing the entire region, to the sponsorship of junior sports clubs’ shirts, taking in charity lunches along the way, Raymond James Ribble Valley puts its money where its heart is!
“September saw the second running of Longridge’s Soap Box Derby and we were delighted to once again be the event’s principal sponsor. Following the enormous success of the inaugural race the organisers, led brilliantly by our own Gary Ward, promised an even bigger and better event in 2023 – and boy did they deliver! Galvanised by the number of visitors in 2022, businesses across Longridge supported the 2023 event magnificently, entering teams and generously providing sponsorship money. I really believe we lit a flame in other businesses to express their pride in their association with our town,” asserts Wayne.
Moreover, the event has a very significant charity element. This year, Longridge Soap Box Derby partnered with much-loved local charity St Catherine’s Hospice, which does such incredible work with the residents of our communities. As a result of the revenues raised from sponsorship, banner sales, kart and market pitch fees plus on the day collections, the incredible sum of nearly £25,000 was raised for St Catherine’s and as John Chesworth from St Catherine’s says: “This amazing sum of money will pay for a hospice nurse for one year. Imagine the care that individual will provide to families in their hour of need.”
RJRV’s commitment to its communities does however run deeper than the principal sponsorship of large events. Tracey Board, its Wealth Manager and Financial Planner, has tirelessly raised money for two charities close to her heart. Tracey raised over £2,000 for Age UK from a fashion show and a jewellery show. A further £1,000 was raised for the Friends of Barrow School from its Summer Ball. Tracey’s latest charitable venture was to nominate the Raymond James’ offices as a drop-off centre for Wrap Up Central Lancashire, a charity collecting coats for women, children and refugees. This venture is helping distribute coats throughout the winter. Magnificently supported by RJRV clients, Tracey continues to raise significant sums for her chosen charities.
Chipping Juniors and Ribchester Rovers football clubs have benefitted from Raymond James’ sponsorship as has the Tidy-Up Longridge campaign. Preston swimmers Luke Pool and Dean Heaps received RJRV sponsorship, having qualified for the finals of the World Masters Swimming Championships in South Korea.
“The Ribble Valley has incredible community spirit,” concludes Wayne. “If our support helps to deepen that spirit then we consider that a considerable achievement. Our small towns have faced significant economic headwinds in recent years and as a business, we are committed to investing in community endeavours that help as many people as possible. We have donated eight per cent of our profits over the last two years to charity and community projects. We are committed to maintaining that level of support. We are indebted to our client base who make this possible by their continued support of our business.”
If you would like to discuss your investment needs and options, please do not hesitate to make an appointment with one of our Longridge-based team. A warm welcome awaits and you will see how embedded in your community we are.
Risk Warning: With investing, your capital is at risk.
Raymond James, Ribble Valley
8 Berry Lane, Longridge
Preston PR3 3JA
01772 780300
ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com