Zest has presented cheques to both MS Society Cymru and North Clwyd Animal Rescue (NCAR), the company’s joint charity commitments for 2025, Zest’s 20th anniversary and P&A’s 40th year in business.  Totals raised were £12,823.97 and £3,320.65 respectively, and the funds were received by Andy Green, Fundraising Manager at MS Society Cymru and Nicky Owen from NCAR.

A year of fundraising saw employees from the family company participate in a wide variety of activities.  Achievements included marathons and half marathons, the MBNA Chester 10K, a walking steps challenge, cycling, the Born Survivor authentic military obstacle course, the highest bungee jump in the UK at Tatton Park and the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge, which involves conquering Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons, Cadair Idris, and finally the most iconic peak—Y Wyddfa (Snowdon). 

The range of initiatives were not just for the sporty however as there were also plenty of inclusive activities, baking and ‘month without’ challenges, raffles, a community quiz night and a community yard sale. Colleagues also gave their time to directly support North Clwyd Animal Rescue, volunteering 194 hours of hands-on support, including dedicated dog walking at the charity’s Trelogan site near Holywell.

Nicky Owen from North Clwyd Animal Rescue commented: “The commitment and generosity shown by everyone at Zest throughout the past year has been truly outstanding. The funds raised will make a significant difference, helping us rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need across North Wales. Beyond the fundraising, the time and energy given by employees has been invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for the positive impact this partnership has had on both our charity and the animals we care for.”

Andy Green, Fundraising Manager at MS Society Cymru, added: “We are incredibly proud of what Zest has achieved through their fundraising efforts. The commitment shown throughout the year has been outstanding, and the funds raised will have a lasting impact, enabling us to continue providing vital services and support to people living with MS across Wales. This support brings us a step closer to our shared goal of stopping MS.”

Commenting on the fundraising achievements, Andrew Baker, Managing Director of Zest, said: “This has been an incredibly proud year. I’ve seen real teamwork, resilience, and encouragement, with colleagues supporting one another to achieve something truly meaningful. Our fundraising is about more than raising money, it’s about building a culture of care, community, and wellbeing.

“We believe strongly in the positive impact of spending time together, getting outdoors and taking part in shared experiences and challenges, not only for physical health but for mental wellbeing too.”

Over the past 16 years, employees across P&A Group have raised and donated more than £190,000 for a wide range of local and national charities, including Dementia UK, British Heart Foundation, Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Meningitis Now and MIND.

Zest was established in 2005 to bring high quality, sustainable timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK. 

For further information about Zest’s GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk