NMBS' continued commitment to the Rainy Day Trust (RDT), a major industry charity, has been acknowledged with a formal award.

The leading buying society for independent builders', plumbing and heating, timber and hardware merchants, was presented with the recognition award at the recent NMBS Annual Dinner Dance by The RDT.

Over the last 15 years, and with the generous support of both its members and suppliers, NMBS has helped to raise in excess of £100,000 for the specialist charity which aims to assist past and present employees of the home improvement industry during times of physical, emotional or financial difficulty.

NMBS has also played an important part in helping to raise awareness of The RDT's work.

The award was presented on behalf of The RDT by Andy Williamson, managing director of IKO plc, to NMBS chairman Tim Allen, and Chris Hayward, the buying society’s managing director.

Chris Hayward said: "The recognition award from The RDT comes as an unexpected but pleasant surprise and should serve as a real source of pride for everyone that works with NMBS – whether that's as a member, a supplier or as part of our own team.

"While NMBS is a very commercially orientated organisation, we do accept a responsibility for supporting our industry charities and putting something back into the community and industry that we serve. To have that commitment officially recognised is fantastic."

Andrew Weiss, president at The RDT, added: "On behalf of The Rainy Day Trust and the countless people we have been able to help over the years, I would like to thank NMBS as well as its members and suppliers for their continued support. Their assistance has proven invaluable and is essential in enabling us to conduct our important work. The special recognition award is wholeheartedly deserved."