In normal times motor industry charity Ben benefits annually from fundraising at AM's major events such as the AM100 Dinner and AM Awards, but the pandemic halted these in 2020.

So now members of AM, from editorial and production through to project management, are joining Ben's new fundraising campaign Move4Ben, with a pledge that 'The AM Team' will walk, cycle or run 500 miles during June.

In return, we'll be seeking sponsorship that we know will help Ben provide critical services for automotive industry workers and their families, such as helplines and counselling for those in financial distress or suffering mental health crises, and care facilities for people with serious illness or disability.

AM editor Tim Rose said: "We're all still dispersed and working at home, and it's all too easy to spend endless hours at our desks, so Move4Ben is ideal motivation to ensure we get some fresh air and exercise.

"This is a great challenge, as we range from me, whose exercise mostly involves walking from desk to fridge other than two daily dog walks, to regular runners in the form of news and features editor Tom Sharpe and our head of project management Leanne Patterson plus our keen cyclist senior designer Chris Stringer.

"We're pleased to do our bit because we know Ben is an amazing charity that helps so many motor industry people though difficult times.

"Until the 2021 AM Awards takes place this September we've been unable to help provide the contribution our audience so generously donates."

Anyone who'd like to sponsor 'The AM Team' and help ensure we beat our 500 mile challenge can do so here.

Matt Wiggington, director of partnerships, engagement and income at Ben, said: “We’ve been supporting more and more people with their health and wellbeing during this difficult time and we can only do this by continuing to fundraise through vital challenges like Move4Ben."