The founder of a challenge that has raised over £1.8 million for regional charities since 2007 has been recognised at the Sheffield Business Awards. 
Gordon Bridge, who won the Special Recognition Award at the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce-hosted awards, was nominated by Bluebell Wood for his commitment to the Master Cutler’s Challenge over its 11-year history. 

Gordon has spent his working life in manufacturing and was the Chief Executive of AES Engineering for 13 years.  He launched The Master Cutler's Challenge during his term in office as Master Cutler in 2007.  

The Challenge sees businesses provided with a seed fund of £50, which they turn into as much money as possible for a Sheffield city region charity.  Since Gordon first suggested and launched the Challenge in 2007, it has had a significant impact on the region’s charities, with over £1.8 million raised and 550 companies taking part.

Gordon Bridge said: “I never thought the Master Cutler’s Challenge would be so successful. It has exceeded all my expectations. My idea was to raise money for local charities and at the same time help companies with their team building. I am delighted that it has worked. It has also raised the profile of the Cutler’s Company which does a lot of good work for the Sheffield Region.” 

Rachael Dawes, Corporate Fundraising Manager, Bluebell Wood, said: “We nominated Gordon for the award because we believe his involvement deserves recognition. Without his creativity, enthusiasm and commitment, the Challenge would not have launched. He has supported every Challenge since the start, helping charities to raise their profile and access an extended support network.

 “When Bluebell Wood was the Master Cutler’s charity in 2018, Gordon hosted a dinner that raised over £20,000 for our hospice. The total raised for Bluebell Wood from the 2018 Challenge has meant we can continue to help families make treasured memories together. Because of all the participants’ efforts, Bluebell Wood could offer over a hundred nights’ end of life care to families facing unimaginably tough times.”