NUMEROUS charities have benefited from the fundraising efforts of an incredible team of fundraisers who work for a local construction and development firm.
The Wates workers known as the Awesome Foursome have raised money for Barnsley Hospital Charity, Barnsley Hospice, Macmillan, Breast Cancer Now, Age UK, Cancer Research and Hey Let’s Talk.
And their efforts have earned them a Proud of Barnsley nomination from Barnsley Hospital Charity.
Jane Mills, charity development manager, said: “Since 2022, the four have gone above and beyond a grand total of £36,128 has been raised which includes a match-funded donation of £16,757 from the Wates Foundation to match the incredible team fundraising effort of £19,371.
“For Barnsley Hospital Charity alone they have raised over £12,000.”
The team, who are nominated in the Fundraising Team of the Year category, has raised the money through a series of bold and creative fundraising challenges.
“From cold water plunges to skydives and their flagship golf day, their efforts have played a major role in raising both funds and awareness for our patients at the hospital,” said Jane.
“The awesome foursome are Kay Parker-Oakley, management accountant, Karen Hayward, scheduler, Chris Keys, multi-skilled joiner, and John Chivers, gas engineer demonstrating the whole team get involved.
“Their support has been instrumental in the Mayor’s Charity of the Year fundraising, demonstrating a deep commitment not only to Barnsley Hospital Charity but to the wider community.
“The team are true champions of collaboration they’ve actively sought match funding from the Wates Foundation, helping to maximise every pound raised, and they’re always looking for the next big challenge.”
A cornerstone of their success has been their annual golf day, which they organise in support of the Mayor’s chosen charities.
“Year after year, this event has grown in popularity and impact thanks to their dedication, planning, and ability to bring people together for a great cause.
“What makes the team stand out is their enthusiasm and readiness to act. They’re consistently the first to sign up, first to volunteer, and the first to rally others. Their commitment doesn’t stop here they’re already planning a team wing walk for 2026, continuing to push boundaries in the name of Barnsley Hospital Charity.
“Their passion, creativity, and collaborative spirit make Wates, Kay Parker-Oakley and Team truly deserving of this community fundraising team recognition.
“Beyond fundraising, the team have become powerful advocates for Barnsley Hospital Charity, using their networks and platforms to raise awareness of our work and encourage others to get involved. Their efforts have not only generated essential funding but also inspired a wider culture of giving and community support — proving that when passionate people come together, they can make a lasting difference.”
Kay was delighted to hear about the nomination: “We’re so excited. That is fantastic, so very kind of her and you, Thank you ever so much you have made my day, week, month and year.”
