The Datebook Summer 2016 | Page 5

Lighthouse Club Charity Marks 60 Years With ‘One Day’ Campaign and a Fantastic Summer Ball incapacitate the worker in such a way they cannot return to work and over 69,000 cases of work related illness. Furthermore, over 45% of all occupational cancer cases in the UK are directly related to working in construction and over 1.7 million man days are lost through injury or illness.” Sporting celebrities joined the charity’s Christmas Lunch…. I t all began one evening in 1956 as a group of gentlemen, who had been attending a Ministry of Public Buildings and Works Exhibition on Tyneside, found themselves on the seafront at Whitley Bay. Under the light of St Mary’s Lighthouse, they vowed to extend the goodwill they enjoyed at the show by forming a club to offer aid and assistance to construction workers who had suffered an accident or illness. In recognition of that evening, the club became known as The Lighthouse Club. Since its humble beginnings the charity has distributed in excess of £15million to over 14,500 construction workers and their families. This year the charity celebrates its 60th Anniversary and to mark this special occasion, they have launched their campaign, “One day… to help our own”. They are challenging everyone in the construction industry to register for Lighthouse Day and choose a day that suits them to raise money. Whether it’s sponsored walks, tough mudder events or sponsored bike rides, everyone can have fun whilst raising vital funds for the charity. The charity needs to continue to look after those in the construction community that have been affected by illness, injury or bereavement. They also need to continue their support of education and training initiatives, such as Building Lives, and to get unemployed and socially Bill Hill, The Lighthouse Club’s President. involved in the fun. Always fancied a ride around the iconic Olympic velodrome track or the The charity needs to continue to look after those in the construction community that have been affected by illness… … as Brazillian dancers enlivened the festivities. Bill Hill, CEO of The Lighthouse Club Charity, said, “Health and Safety statistics reflect an industry that is incredibly dangerous. Every year there are over 40 fatalities, over 2,000 major accidents that St Mary’s Lighthouse, Whitley Bay. disadvantaged labour back into work in construction. Their Health and Safety Innovation Fund is aimed at projects that will proactively reduce accidents and promote health initiatives on-site. To help celebrate their amazing 60th Anniversary, the Lighthouse Club Charity has lined up a whole host of events and challenges to get everyone George Mosey running as 9ft foam “Eddie the Lighthouse” in this year’s London Marathon. Visit The London & UK DatebooK on www.thedatebook.co.uk challenge of a 10k run around the famous landmarks of London? If so, the charity needs you! The highlight of the season is the show stopping Summer Ball at the Honourable Artillery Company in London. Guests will experience a champagne reception, gourmet food, live entertainment and even a fun fair. Book your places now to avoid disappointment. If you’re interested i