Desmond Motors and Ford have successfully raised £6,000 in aid of Foyle Search and Rescue through a local test driving event.

‘Drive For Your Community’ took place on Saturday, June 6, and saw a variety of Ford vehicles stationed at Foyle Search and Rescue’s Prehen base as members of the public were invited to take them for a test drive.

Over 200 journeys were logged, with Ford donating £30 to Foyle Search and Rescue for each test drive, creating an impactful way for the local community to contribute to the organisation’s emergency response services.

Foyle Search plays a critical role across the North West, providing rapid response and lifesaving assistance along the River Foyle.

Kealan Mallon, Commercial Director, Desmond Motors, Dawn Grieve, Volunteer Manager, Foyle Search & Rescue, and Jonathan Ferguson, Ford Sales Manager, Desmond Motors.

placeholder image — Kealan Mallon, Commercial Director, Desmond Motors, Dawn Grieve, Volunteer Manager, Foyle Search & Rescue, and Jonathan Ferguson, Ford Sales Manager, Desmond Motors.

Dawn Grieve, Volunteer Manager, Foyle Search & Rescue, said: “Over 200 people showed up and supported Foyle Search and Rescue, and for that we raised £6,000 thanks to Desmond Motors and Ford. £6,000 to Foyle Search and Rescue goes a long way in keeping our daily operations running effectively, so we want to say a massive thank you to you all.”

Jonathan Ferguson, Ford Manager at Desmond Motors, said: “I'm delighted to announce that we have managed to raise the full £6,000 for Foyle Search and Rescue.

“I would like to thank everybody that came over to test drive the Ford product, and I would also like to thank Ford for their contribution towards every community that they support across the whole UK. I think it was an amazing event and again, I'd like to thank the people of Derry for coming out and supporting it.”