STAFF at a Bournemouth company have raised more than £17,000 for the Amelia-Grace Rainbow Fund and Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Ageas employees presented cheques to each charity funded by events including a 24-hour spinathon, the London to Brighton Bike Ride, a summer fete, 10k running events, marathons, dress-down days, the Dorset Plane Pull as well as cake and book sales.

Recently, the company also joined forces with its suppliers for a raffle that raised more than £3,200 towards the fundraising target.

The fund was set up in memory of the Bournemouth youngster who died from an aggressive form of childhood cancer in 2010.

It helps sick youngsters and their families, funding activities and play.

Her mother Chantel Cooper, founding trustee, said: “We were delighted to be chosen as one of the company’s 2013 charities of the year.

“Ageas employees have done a wonderful job and we’re thoroughly imp-ressed with the amount they raised.

“Their support ensures the charity continues to create an environment of fun, laughter, achievement and memories by providing activities and play which enrich the lives of children who are suffering with terminal, life-limiting and serious chronic illness.”

Ageas MD Peter Corfield said: “This has been a fantastic year of fundraising and a great display of generosity and dedication by our employees.”

  • A team of six men will ride the 100-mile South Downs National Park route in aid of the fund on March 31.

To support them, please go to virginmoneygiving.com/southdownscyclists