Wickes puts its boss in a box
Published: 3 September 2012
A four by four feet glass box, suspended 20 ft over a car park in Aylesbury was where a director from Wickes spent a gruelling 34 hours of his bank holiday weekend last week.
Services director Tim Matthews took part in the David Blaine-esque challenge for the retailer's charity partner Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research. Starting from 7am on Saturday, August 25, Mr Matthews managed to complete the task without taking and breaks or using any facilities outside of his box - raising more than £9,000 for the blood cancer charity.
He said: "The weather wasn't great over the weekend and I was a little concerned when the thunderstorms and wind hit on Saturday afternoon, but I was determined to complete the challenge as part of our commitment to help beat blood cancer.
"I hope that my efforts have inspired others to try something innovative to raise money for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research. Although it was a struggle, it's nothing compared to the grueling treatments that blood cancer patients routinely have to undertake. The money we raised will go towards finding better and safer cures for the diseases."
Mr Matthews was equipped with a microphone during the two days and spent much of his time calling out to customers with helpful suggestions of what they might have forgotten to buy.
Cathy Gilman, Chief Executive of Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, said: "Our partnership with Wickes continues to be a brilliant success and we are so grateful for all the fundraising they are doing for us. Tim's efforts were truly determined and inspirational in helping to beat blood cancer. All the money raised will go towards our vital research into better treatments and cures for blood cancers including leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma."
The stunt ended when the hosting Wickes store in Cambridge Close Retail Park closed at 5pm on Sunday.
Donations are still being welcomed on Mr Matthews'
Just Giving page.