Fernco, a leading provider of flood protection solutions, has committed £25,000 to support flood disaster relief efforts.

The company has launched the "Race Against the Rivers Challenge," a year-long fundraising campaign aiming to raise £25,000 for REACT Disaster Response. This humanitarian rapid response charity provides immediate aid and long-term recovery to communities affected by natural disasters, including flooding.

A Nationwide Challenge for a Critical Cause

As part of the "Race Against the Rivers Challenge," Fernco employees will cover 2,446 gruelling miles—equivalent to the combined length of 25 major UK rivers—through walking, cycling, and running between February and November.

Fernco Managing Director, Lee Pashley, highlights the urgency of this initiative:

"As the threat of flooding increases, we must become more resilient and flood-ready. Just last year, my hometown of Chesterfield was devastated by flooding, and seeing its impact on people’s lives was heartbreaking."

Between October 2022 and March 2024, England experienced its wettest 18-month period in over 180 years, placing one in six properties—around 5.7 million homes—at risk of flooding.

Strengthening Flood Resilience

Lee continues:

"At Fernco, we are passionate about providing solutions that protect homes and communities from flooding, but we want to make an even bigger impact. The "Race Against the Rivers Challenge" enables us to directly support vulnerable communities by funding further training and essential equipment for REACT Flood Responders."

Toby Wicks, Chief Executive of REACT Disaster Response, commended Fernco’s initiative:

"With flooding becoming increasingly frequent and disruptive, this partnership between Fernco and REACT highlights the immense power of collaboration in protecting vulnerable communities. Fernco’s commitment to resilience strengthens our mission by equipping volunteer Flood Responders with the essential tools and training needed to act swiftly when disaster strikes. Together, we are creating a future where no one faces the devastating impacts of flooding alone."

Get Involved

Fernco is calling on everyone to support their fundraising efforts by participating in the "Race Against the Rivers Challenge." Join them in raising essential funds to help REACT Disaster Response continue its vital work in protecting flood-affected communities.