Motoring group Hendy has been shortlisted for a top automotive award for its commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates.

It is a finalist in the Community Hero Award category of the AM Awards 2020 for its work in setting up the Hendy Foundation.

The foundation, which provides grants to charities and organisations, was only established last year.

Mark Busby, Hendy Commercial Director and Hendy Foundation Trustee, pictured right, said he was thrilled that the foundation had been shortlisted for such a prestigious award so soon after being launched.

He added: “Throughout Hendy’s 161 years in business the company has always had an extensive community support programme and this has now been formalised in the setting up of the Hendy Foundation.

“This has already paid grants to a wide range of charities and organisations and will continue to support people in the area in which Hendy operates.”

The Hendy Foundation is a dedicated charity that provides grants to local projects, people, events and charitable organisations.

It is committed to helping make a difference to people’s lives in the areas in which Hendy Group dealerships are located, from Dorset through to Devon, Wiltshire, Hampshire, East Sussex, West Sussex, Surrey and Kent.

Dorset charities supported in the first year include SAMEE which was given a £2,000 cash boost for a project to help lone parents set up their own business.

About Face, the Poole-based charity which provides help and support for those affected by head and neck cancer, received £1,500.

This year’s AM Awards take place at Birmingham’s ICC on Thursday February 13.

They are hosted by BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Michin.

The awards are organised by Automotive Management, the motor industry magazine for dealers.

• The Hendy Foundation reviews grant submissions on a quarterly basis. Click here to apply for a grant. There is a maximum donation of £5,000.