STAFF of Wythall-based Phoenix Group have raised just over £25,000 for Willow Foundation, a UK charity set up by football legend Bob Wilson, the former Arsenal and Scotland goalkeeper.

Wilson and his wife Megs set up the foundation in memory of their daughter Anna.

Willow was voted for by staff at the site, as part of an extended fund-raiser this year, which the pension management company named Challenge 2012. Numerous fund-raising events have taken place over the past six months, many linked to the challenge theme.

Funds were raised by staff participating in a mile-run around the Wythall office site, a static triathlon challenge covering a total of 749 km, a 187 km cycle ride from the Wythall to London office, a team of 35 taking part in this year’s Bupa Great Birmingham Run, along with charity dress-down days, raffle and donations from suppliers.

The Willow Foundation provides life-enhancing special days for seriously ill 16 to 40-year-olds. Every special day aims to provide beneficiaries and their loved ones with a break from the realities of their diagnosis and treatment.

Shellie Wells, head of media relations at Phoenix Group, said: "Our staff have really demonstrated their commitment to this cause and we feel really proud to have raised such a large amount for the charity, which provides special days for seriously ill young people.”