A BASINGSTOKE company will truly be championing Ark Cancer Centre Charity in 2018.

Over the coming year, the team at Champion Group will be taking part in various events and activities that will raise funds for, and awareness of, Ark and its appeal to provide £5million towards a cancer treatment centre that will be built in the Basingstoke area.

Some members of the construction industry company are already long-standing Ark supporters as a 24-strong team, featuring many of the staff, raised more than £40,000 in September 2016 by cycling from London to Brighton on a sponsored bike ride.

Director Perry Champion and group accountant Kevin Croombs are also leading members of the Arkriders – a group of cyclists who support Ark. They and colleagues Sam Champion and Paul Kent were among 34 riders who raised more than £60,000 for Ark in July 2017 by taking part in the Ark to Arc ride.

Champion Group managing director Barry Champion said the team are delighted to add Ark to their list of charities that have been supported as a Charity of the Year.

Barry said: “We are a community-focused company where the team like to make a difference by raising awareness, and funds, for local good causes.

“We are all looking forward to supporting Ark’s campaign to help deliver this much-needed unique local cancer treatment centre. We are proud of the area we live and work in, and we are proud to take an active part in community life from a corporate perspective and as individuals.”

Ark Cancer Centre Charity trustee Merv Rees said: “Ark Cancer Centre Charity is proud and honoured to have been chosen as the Charity of the Year by Champion Group, and we welcome them on board as one of Our Partner corporate supporters.

“Several members of the company have already made a significant contribution by helping to raise a substantial amount for the charity.

“To now be officially adopted as the company’s 2018 Charity of the Year is a significant, and very welcome, show of support, and there is no doubt that the Champion Group team will play a key role in helping Ark to progress in 2018.”

Largely being funded by Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Ark’s £5m will ensure that a range of complementary therapies and supportive services are available alongside radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments.