Star Platforms Supports Marathon des Sables Fundraising Effort
Star Platforms is celebrating the success of a fundraising campaign supported through its ‘We Rise’ initiative after industry colleague and charity fundraiser Ivor Stratford completed one of the world’s toughest endurance events while raising vital funds for two deserving charities.
Ivor recently took on the legendary Marathon des Sables (MDS), a gruelling six-day ultra-marathon across the Sahara Desert. Covering approximately 250 kilometres in temperatures that can exceed 50°C, competitors are required to carry their own equipment and supplies as they traverse challenging desert terrain.
The challenge was undertaken in support of The Hospice of St Francis and Dreams Come True, two charities that provide invaluable support to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances.
Having been inspired by Ivor’s determination and commitment to raising funds, Star Platforms pledged its support through the company’s ‘We Rise’ charitable initiative. Revenue generated throughout April 2026 by the dedicated ‘We Rise’ scissor lift was donated to the fundraising effort, with Joint Managing Director, Richard Miller, confirming the company will match the contribution to further increase the amount raised.
The fundraising campaign proved to be a tremendous success, exceeding its original target and raising more than £11,000 for the two charities.
Richard Miller, Managing Director of Star Platforms, said: “When Ivor first told us about the challenge, my immediate thought was that he must be slightly mad! However, the determination, commitment and purpose behind what he was doing was incredibly inspiring.
At Star Platforms, supporting charitable causes is something we care deeply about, and through our ‘We Rise’ initiative we are fortunate to be able to contribute to projects that make a real difference. To see Ivor not only complete such an extraordinary challenge, but also exceed his fundraising target, is a fantastic achievement and one we were proud to support.”
Reflecting on the campaign, Ivor Stratford said: “The support I received throughout the challenge was incredible. Marathon des Sables is often described as the toughest footrace on earth, and there were certainly moments that tested me physically and mentally. Knowing that people and businesses like Star Platforms were behind me helped provide the motivation to keep going. I’m hugely grateful for their generosity and support.”
The funds raised will help The Hospice of St Francis continue providing care and support to people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families, while Dreams Come True will continue creating life-changing opportunities for children living with serious illnesses, disabilities and challenging circumstances.
Supporting Ivor’s challenge is the latest example of how Star Platforms’ We Rise initiative helps turn everyday equipment hire into meaningful support for charitable causes. Through the initiative, the company continues to work alongside customers, suppliers and industry partners to make a positive difference to communities across the UK.
To support Ivor’s fundraising efforts, visit his fundraising page. For more information about the ‘We Rise’ initiative and the charities it has helped support, visit the Star Platforms ‘We Rise’ page.
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