Alan and his wife have always had a passion for nature and enjoy spending time outside amongst wildlife, especially with their dog. Since moving to Hampshire, this passion has grown hugely and they have developed an even greater connection to the environment around them. They decided that they wanted to do more to care for wildlife, beyond their at home chicken farm. They also have their very own rewilding area in their garden, consisting of a patch of the land left to grow to become home to a variety of species of wildlife. Their pond in this area also hopes to attract a range of aquatic wildlife as well as land; combined with wildlife that thrive in more manicured areas to create an incredibly biodiverse garden!  

Alan wanted to make a difference to the local area and thought that some fundraising could support wildlife even more than the steps they are taking at home, as well as inspiring others to take action too. This led them to choose to support the Trust, by making us the business’ charity of the year 2022 and engaging customers in the work that we do. Alan also commented that when deciding which charity he should support with his business, he wanted to fundraise for a charity who’s work would “benefit generations to come”.  

To raise money, Southern Car Storage added an optional £1 increase to their monthly fees which is donated to the Trust. To their surprise, every single one of his customers agreed to this small increase and was more than happy with this change. The business also matches every one of these donations each month, doubling their fundraising amount and creating an additional incentive for their customers to donate. Additionally, Alan often transports cars and bikes for customers if required for MOTs and servicing which he doesn’t charge for and instead, asks for a donation to be made to the Trust.  

During 2022, Southern Car Storage raised and incredible £6320 which continues to increase in to 2023. Alan originally set out to raise £3000, which he has clearly exceeded. 

Alan continued his support into 2023 and raised another £6887, creating an incredible total of £13,207 raised over the last two years - which continues to increase. Thank you, Alan, for your hard work and dedication to helping to create a wilder future for us all.  

If you are interested in making us your Charity of the Year or fundraising for us on your own or in your workplace, then get in touch with our fundraising team at fundraising@hiwwt.org.uk.