Fleet industry organisation ACFO and logistics firm Buffaload have lent their support to a 10,500 mile run called the 401 Challenge.

The 401 Challenge is a fund-raising project which aims to inspire people to take on their own personal challenges, increase awareness to the effects of bullying in the UK and raise a substantial amount of money for two anti-bullying charities, Stonewall and Kidscape. In order to do this Ben Smith is running 10,506.2 miles throughout the UK over 401 days.  

The Challenge has been selected as a charity partner by the Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO), which has been actively promoting the challenge to their members via social media or other lines of communication to encourage people to get involved. 

Caroline Sandall, ACFO deputy chair said: “We wanted to support a cause where we could make a difference, where we could support through our actions as well as through raising money. We were actively looking for a smaller charity that we could benefit. I live in Portishead and heard about the preparations for Ben’s 401 Challenge. It is an amazing and unique challenge, and with many members having families, raising money to help children combat the effects of bullying appealed. And we understand any project that keeps a sharp eye on the mileage.” 

Buffaload Logistics have commissioned a 2mx4m promotional advertising campaign on the rear of one of their vehicles. This advert depicts a full scale image of Ben during one of his charity runs with a local running club, and informs people how to donate and support the project. Buffaload's vehicles travel daily on a national scale which will hopefully raise further awareness of this inspiring project.

Julie Feltwell, managing director at Buffaload Logistics. said: “This is a very worthy cause and one that we are proud to support. Certainly the trailer looks very striking with Ben’s image on the back and will no doubt be eye-catching as it travels throughout the country. We wish Ben and the team all the very best.”  

Ben Smith added: “I have previously worked in operational management for a large FMCG FTSE 100 company who have supplied goods to organisations throughout the world.  I understand the importance of fleet vehicles and the potential impact and advertising campaigns could have in regards in gaining more support by social media or increasing our donations.  I want to convey my thanks to Buffaload Logistics and ACFO for their continued support and fantastic opportunity. I cannot wait to spot the vehicle whilst running  around the UK."  

Smith is currently on day 366 of the challenge.

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