The residents of Cropredy took part in the Accumulator Challenge three years running between 2017 and 2020 and scooped the awards for both Most Funds Raised and Most Creative Fundraising by a community group.  

The team was led by Frances Whitaker and she told us why the team from Cropredy Village Hall took part in the Accumulator Challenge and why they enjoyed it so much!  

"People in the village wanted to support Katharine House Hospice and we felt this was a perfect fundraising opportunity for us but also a great way to use the resources at the village hall," Frances explains. "For us it was a no brainer!" 

The fundraising idea was simple but effective. Over the three years, the village hall committee arranged a Strictly Come Dancing final night each December. The event was very popular with the locals as people in the village could watch the Strictly Come Dancing final with friends and family while having a drink and enjoying delicious food. The evening also included a raffle. All this for £10 per ticket! They event grew each year and by December 2019 over 60 people attended the evening and the team of either raised nearly £1,200. 

"Initially we used our £50 seed fund for advertising, but we also used social media to spread the word for free. We also used left-over donations from previous events and approached local businesses for discounted items, such as a chicken from the local butchers, big enough to feed 60 people!" By thinking outside the box and being creative with their resources, this helped the team to keep costs low on food and refreshments and also obtain some great raffle prizes.  

Looking back, Frances remembers the sense of community spirit within the village. "It brought a great feeling to the village, everyone involved had a great time and it was a great feeling to have fun while doing something for charity. I would urge people, particularly now, during these tough times, to support Katharine House Hospice. If you want to fundraise and have a good time, this is the challenge for you!"

The team from Cropredy Village Hall raised £2,166 during the challenges and came together as a community to support a local charity and their local hospice.  

Are you part of a community group that can steal their crown?!  

If so, sign up now and become the ultimate accumulator!

Join the Accumulator Challenge now!