The BTSS are working with two Midlands-based charities, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and Mencap in the Midlands (Mencap), as our nominated charities for 2009/10. A large amount of money is raised every year from the proceeds of organised events such as music gigs and quizzes, and the raffles at the BTSS Summer Ball and Annual Dinner.

BTSS members support many other worthwhile causes throughout the year and have taken part in sponsored running events, sky dives, cycle challenges, walks, shark dives and the like. The BTSS actively supports the involvement of its members in charitable events. Participating in such events allows BTSS members to contribute to the wider community and expand their own personal development.

If you would like to get involved, or if you have any queries regarding BTSS charities events, please contact Ian Little (Ian.Little@martineau-uk.com).

Skydive to aid diabetes research
	JDRF runs sponsored skydiving events throughout the year at airfields all over the UK at a cost of £395, of which £140 will go straight to the charity. The next skydive is to take place on 5 September 2009 at Whitchurch Airfield, Shropshire. No experience is required and if you raise the minimum amount of sponsorship your jump will be free! If you are interested in taking part in a sky dive and would like further information, please call 0121 685 7102 or e-mail westmidlands@jdrf.org.uk quoting ‘BTSS’.
Shark Dive for Acorns Children’s Hospice
	Experience one of the most breathtaking encounters of a lifetime when you come face to face with creatures from the deep, definitely not for the faint hearted! Raise vital funds for Acorns Children’s Hospice while taking part in this once in a lifetime experience at Chester Aquarium. £50 deposit and minimum fundraise of £400. Various dates are available. For an information pack please quote BTSS and email Lucy.Shepherd@acorns.org.uk Acorns Children’s Hospice was established in 1983 and has a network of care for life limited children and young people and support for their families across the heart of England. Acorns has three hospices (in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester) and is the largest children’s hospice charity in the world).
EDF Birmingham Half Marathon
	Support Mencap in the Midlands by running in the 2009 EDF Birmingham Half Marathon on Sunday 11 October 2009 and help raise funds for a great cause. The first EDF Energy Birmingham half marathon took place in 2008 and was a huge success with over 9,000 runners taking part. Runners will follow the 13.1 mile route to pass through Birmingham city centre to finish on Broad Street (next to Centenary Square). If you would like to support local children and adults with a learning disability and are looking for a challenge this is the event for you. Mencap runners will receive a free running vest or t-shirt, fundraising hints and tips, a sponsor form and most importantly lots of support and encouragement! For further information, or if you would like to run for Mencap in the EDF Birmingham Half Marathon then please contact Phil Hetherington on 0121 708 3037 or email: philip.hetherington@mencap.org.uk quoting ‘BTSS’.
BUPA Great South Run (10 miles)
	Join ‘Team Pingu’ on Sunday 25 October 2009 running in and around Portsmouth on a flat fast course and raise vital funds for JDRF. Contact JDRF to apply for your free place on 02380 586 269 or e-mail Southcoast@jdrf.org.uk.
Paintballing
	Would you like to have a fun day paintballing while raising funds for West Midlands Lupus Group (WMLG)? The cost is just £10 per person (group of 10 people) which includes tea/coffee on arrival, light lunch, full protective clothing, insurance cover and 100 paintballs. A choice of dates and venues are available. Please contact Yvonne Norton quoting ‘BTSS’ on 01902 498236 or e-mail her on yvonne@wmlg.freeserve.co.uk.