BENNETT Christmas Insurance Brokers converted a try as they successfully supported Peacehaven Community School’s bid to raise funds for new rugby kit.

Geoff Stanbridge, commercial account executive for the Burgess Hill-based insurance brokers, came up with the idea after meeting Tom Monk, a PE teacher from his son’s school, by coincidence at a business networking event.

Impressed by Tom’s commitment and passion for encouraging young people to play sports, Geoff decided to nominate the school for the Aviva Community Fund, an initiative that allows brokers to recommend worthy causes with the aim of raising money for them.

Geoff said: “It was funny I ran into Tom by chance.

“As we got talking he explained the school really needed some funds for their new rugby kit and I was taken by his enthusiasm – he’s fiercely passionate about inspiring children to be active.

“We’re all sporty people at Bennett Christmas – we have our own football and squash team - so it was a natural fit and a great cause to throw our weight behind.”

Earlier this year eoff’s proposition received enough votes to take home the prize and last week, the Bennett Christmas team accompanied the school to a special event hosted at the Honourable Artillery Company, London.

While there, the school was presented with Aviva funds by Will Greenwood, former England rugby player and World Cup winner.