1.) Sam Buxton

The chief executive of Coventry’s independent Heart of England Co-operative Society has praised colleagues for raising over £38,000 to help local cancer patients.

Steve Browne said staff took it upon themselves to organise a host of fundraising activities. “This is a cause which touches so many people’s lives and our colleagues have been incredibly motivated to support it.

“They’re making a positive difference as these much needed funds will boost cancer support services throughout Coventry and Warwickshire. I’m so proud of what they’ve achieved over the past 18 months - and they’re not finished yet. The fundraising will continue until February when we announce our next corporate charity.”

The Heart of England Co-op adds a further £250 to the charity pot on behalf of any colleague who raises more than that amount. Sam Buxton (above), who is based at the head office in Foleshill, was one of several people who earned the bonus, bringing the total he raised to £1,686.

The father-of four took on a month-long challenge during which he ran 100 miles, cycled 50 miles and swam 25 miles. He said his family had been impacted with cancer and was determined to help. “To be honest, I’d planned to do this even before cancer affected my family, but the impact of that has been a real eye opener,” he said.

Jessica Zaremba, relationship fundraising manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said the charity is extremely grateful: “From coffee mornings to creative fundraising challenges, their dedication has been inspiring. Every pound raised helps Macmillan provide vital support to people living with cancer across Coventry and Warwickshire, whether that’s through our nurses, our support line, or helping with the practical and emotional challenges that cancer can bring.”