BEN is turning 104 on 19 July 2009 and we’re inviting you to help us celebrate during National BEN Week (13-19 July) by ‘Hitting the Beach with BEN’!

That’s right, this year’s National BEN Week is taking on a beach theme, so it’s the perfect opportunity to get your flip flops on and your deck chairs out! Whether it’s wearing your shorts to work or organising an office beach ball party - we need you to get involved and help us raise vital funds for BEN - Motor & Allied Trades Benevolent Fund.

Last year National BEN Week was a huge success. Hundreds of you took part, either by holding your own event or by simply sending in your contributions. Together we raised a whopping £15,243.13 - a fantastic birthday present that went directly towards helping those in our industries in times of need.

Take a look around the site for more information and ideas for fundraising during National BEN Week. Our only ask is that you let us know what you intend to get up to. Whether it be organising fish and chips for lunch for your workmates, or turning your office into a tropical paradise, we want to know!

And if you send us some photos we’ll make sure to include them on the blog!