Richard Parks was named Celebrity Fundraiser of the Year last night at the 2012 JustGiving Awards in London.
The former Wales rugby player, turned adventurer and mountaineer pipped celebrities including David Walliams, Michael Vaughan, Bob Wilson, Dawn Porter and Scott Mills to achieve the accolade following the success of his World First 737 Challenge.
Richard, who was in Norway and unable to attend the awards recorded a special video message saying; “It was fantastic and a real honour to be shortlisted for this years JustGiving Celebrity Fundraiser of the Year Award, but to actually win it is just incredible. I am speechless over here, which is pretty rare for me! I’d like to say a massive thank you to JustGiving for recognising my 737 Challenge and to all the judges who selected me as the winner tonight”.
Richard’s bravery and determined fundraising was applauded by JustGiving, whose panel of judges chose Richard as the Celebrity Fundraiser of the Year ahead of football goalkeeping legend Bob Wilson’s Soccer Cycle. His amazing efforts and fundraising were also commended at the awards.
Aside from setting his astonishing feat, Rich’s exploits have so far raised over £280,000 whilst reaching over 68 million people and achieved a media value of over £2.1m in raising funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care. “I’m so grateful for the support I’ve had from everyone” Richard added, “so many people have contributed to this and I’d like to say a massive thank you to each and every person who has pledged a donation or helped me in some way”.
Well done Rich – more fantastic recognition for both the Challenge and all the work the 737 team have put in behind the scenes. limegreentangerine are very proud to have contributed to this.