Rural insurance broker Lycetts has announced a new partnership with the National Garden Scheme (NGS), becoming the North East sponsor and helping garden owners raise funds for local charities and community causes.
This marks Newcastle-based Lycetts’ first year supporting the initiative, which invites owners of private gardens to open their gates to the public in aid of nursing charities, community projects and other vital services.
The sponsorship reflects Lycetts’ strong ties to the region and its clients. With many of the participating homes already insured by the firm, the partnership is a natural extension of its long-standing commitment to heritage properties and the people who care for them.
“The National Garden Scheme is a wonderful initiative that brings people together, celebrates the beauty of local gardens and raises vital funds for charity.
“Many of our clients are long-standing supporters of the scheme, so we are delighted to give something back through our sponsorship.”
Simon Aitken of Lycetts
Lycetts staff from the Newcastle office, including Emily Young, Charles Orpwood, Charlie Renwick, Simon Aitken and Dakkan Forrest, have been attending garden openings across Northumberland to show their support and promote an exclusive charity raffle.
The raffle proved a great success, with a host of lucky winners receiving prizes including private garden tours with afternoon tea at Stanton Fence and Longwitton Hall Gardens, tickets to RHS Garden Bridgewater and professional garden design consultations.
With matched funding from Lycetts’ parent company, the Benefact Group, funds raised were doubled up to £5,000 – helping the initiative reach its £10,000 target for charities supported by the NGS.
“We are proud to support the National Garden Scheme in the North East,” said Aitken.
“It’s a cause that aligns perfectly with our values, supporting local communities, preserving beautiful properties and helping charitable initiatives thrive.“Our staff have enjoyed getting involved in the garden openings and look forward to seeing the positive impact our sponsorship will help achieve.”
Maureen Kesteven, National Garden Scheme Regional Chairman for the North of England, added:
“We’ve had a fantastic first year with Lycetts as our sponsor. They’ve worked hard to support the National Garden Scheme in the North East and had the amazing result of raising £10k, as well as financially supporting our booklet.
“We are looking forward to a bright and fruitful future.”
To learn more about the National Garden Scheme and upcoming garden openings in the North East, visit www.ngs.org.uk.
