Rainbow's first fundraiser

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Richard Bately was Rainbow Trust's first fundraiser and spent 12 years working tirelessly to raise funds to continue Rainbow's great work with families. Richard retired at age 70.

What first led you to get involved with Rainbow Trust in 1988?
A chance encounter with Bernadette and being inspired by her description of Rainbow Trust's work. I volunteered on the spot and was soon happy to give up my job to work full time for Rainbow.

What is your favourite memory of this time?
The thrill of securing the support of Lord Mancroft and the resultant sum of close to £1 million from his scratch card scheme!

How does it make you feel that Rainbow Trust is now 25 years old?
I'm very proud to know that Rainbow continues to support severly ill children and their families

What was your favourite Rainbow fundraising event?
The joy of securing the support of the Leathersellers Livery in 1989 and knowing that they still support Rainbow today.

I think the glamour of starting the Annual Ball gave me the biggest thrill - I worked with some fantastic people who were towers of strength.