A children’s hospice has been recognised for its innovative fundraising event in collaboration with sugar manufacturers Tate & Lyle Sugars.

Richard House Children’s Hospice and the Silvertown-based company were awarded runners-up and received a certificate of commendation in the Challenge Event category at last night’s Third Sector Business Charity Awards.

The novel team building challenge saw six teams of employees from the sugar giant take over six Richard House’s charity shops for a day last year and compete to raise the most money.

Their efforts raised more than £25,000 for the hospice, which has made a huge difference to children and young adults with life-limiting illness, and their families who are supported by Richard House.

Fraser Chynoweth, Food Service Sales Director for Tate & Lyle Sugars said: “The Shop Challenge Day was as good as any corporate team building event we could have paid for, with the added benefit that all of the money went to a fantastic cause. We are delighted that the challenge and our strong relationship with Richard House was recognised at last night’s awards.”

Peter Ellis, Chief Executive at Richard House, said: “We are extremely grateful for the continuing support of Tate & Lyle Sugars, who have supported us for many years, and I thank everyone involved in making the Shop Challenge such a huge success. The accolade of receiving a commendation from the Business Charity Awards capped it all.”

Tate & Lyle Sugars is based near the Beckton hospice and has supported the charity since 1999.