A horticultural-based environmental social enterprise has been surprised with a minibus — just a few days after its van was stolen.

Rhubarb Farm, Langwith, discovered it was to receive the 17-seater minibus at EEM’s fifth annual Building Communities Awards.

South Normanton-based EEM (Efficiency East Midlands) was formed in 2010, working with its members to find best-value products and services through collaborative procurement.

The not-for-profit procurement consortium supports more than 150 public sector organisations.

The black-tie annual awards, sponsored by J Tomlinson, was held at the Athena, Leicester, and included a charity auction and raffle.

The event, attended by 440 housing and construction professionals, saw £22,000 handed over to Prostate Cancer UK as well as £12,000 for Rhubarb Farm, which EEM upgraded into the big surprise — the urgently needed £26,000 minibus, complete with a personalised registration plate, R400 BRB, and branding.

Rhubarb Farm supports vulnerable people to change their lives for the better, using horticultural therapy. It works with people of all needs and abilities.

Managing director Jennie Street and business development manager Angela Keyworth, who attended the event, said they were blown away by everybody’s support.

“We were expecting to receive a cheque for about £10,000 from monies raised by EEM members. Instead, to our total amazement, Rhubarb Farm was given a brand new 17-seater minibus worth £26,700.

“It was more than we hoped for in our wildest dreams for the farm.

“We don’t know how to thank EEM and all 25 companies, local authorities and housing associations (their members) whom they procure materials for.

“It was incredible and restored our faith in human nature.

“We want to express a special thanks to Pete Smith, chief executive of EEM, who runs an amazing business, not only recognising the good work of the businesses they procure for, but donating its profits for community benefit and raising more money from its members to add to this.

“It is a brilliant model of corporate social responsibility.”

Sponsors who helped to buy the minibus were: Matthews and Tannert, Robert Woodhead, Buildbase, T&S Heating, Vaillant, Nationwide Windows & Doors, Smith Bros, nmcn, Cawarden Co, Bayliss Print, J Tomlinson, Vinshire, Wildgoose Construction, Avonside Group, Ventro, CPS, Neil Shacklocks, Edmundson Electrical, J. M. Hill, Plumbase. Henry Boot, Thomas Bow and Vauxhall Drive.

Award winners were: Social Housing New Build (sponsored by Baydale Control Systems) — Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA).

Environmental Responsibility (sponsored by European Asbestos Services) — Cornerstone (East Anglia) Limited.­

Collaborative Working (sponsored by DEY Professional Heating Solutions) — Vin, and Nottinghamshire Warm Homes on Prescription.

Distributor of the Year (sponsored by Marlowe Fire and Security) — Grafton Supply Chain Solutions (GSCS).
Employee Development (sponsored by Fortem) — Golden Lane Housing.

Innovative Product (sponsored by Grafton Merchanting GB) — Vent-Axia Lo-Carbon Revive.

Tenant Participation (sponsored by Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd) — Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA).

Contractor of the Year (sponsored by Avonside Group) — J Tomlinson Ltd.

Housing Provider of the Year (sponsored by Dodd Group) — Golden Lane Housing.

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Matthews & Tannert) — Dannielle Baguley, J Tomlinson Ltd.

Community Impact (sponsored by T&S Heating) — J Tomlinson.

Project of the Year (sponsored by DMW Environmental) — Newark and Sherwood Homes.