Ascona donates ￡11.5k to support Duke of Edinburgh charity

Ascona, one of the UK’s fastest-growing forecourt operators, has supported the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) charity with a donation of ￡11,500.

The donation was made through Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally charity, by 46 Ascona sites across England and Wales to support DofE activity in their local area.

The DofE Charity has been supporting young people for more than six decades and the donation will assist in its mission to inspire young people, support them to develop as individuals and build the skills to successfully navigate their lives.

Ian Gwilym, Senior Relationships Manager of DofE Wales commented: “For many young people, the coronavirus pandemic turned their world upside down, putting their studies, work, hobbies, and travel plans on hold.

“When the familiar routines and connections of school, college and daily life were stripped away the DofE continued to provide essential structure, focus, and purpose for young people.

“There has never been a more important time to support young people and the terrific donation from Ascona, Nisa and MADL will help to transform the prospects of the COVID-generation across Wales and many areas across the UK where Nisa operate. By doing their DofE, young people develop key skills and attributes including resilience and confidence, re-form vital social bonds and broaden their horizons, helping them to stay positive, motivated, and curious.”

The donations to the DofE scheme bring the total donated by Ascona via the Making a Difference Locally charity to more than ￡15,000 to date.

Darren Briggs, Chief Executive of Ascona Group, said: “Since we started Ascona back in 2011, supporting communities across the areas where we operate has been central to our culture. We are proud to support the DofE in its vital mission to empower young people, especially across the most marginalised communities.

“The disruption the pandemic wrought on young people’s educational and social lives was unprecedented, and the great work of Ian and his team has never been more important in providing essential structure and support to young people and helping them unlock their full potential.”