Stirling Ackroyd reigned supreme in The Wickers Charity’s recent Aitch Group-sponsored ’It’s a Knock Out’ event, held at East Ham Rugby Club.

Funds raised for the charity – which combats knife crime in London – exceeded £15,000 (after costs) as more than 200 attendees across 20 teams from property companies competed in sports day-themed activities such as tug of war, bungee races, three-legged races and an inflatable assault course challenge.

While Stirling Ackroyd took the annual event’s trophy for the second year in a row, other companies competed included Aitch Group, JLL, Savills, Kingsbury Stone, Kalmars and Strettons.

The east London-based Wickers Charity focuses on delivering activities aimed at keeping young people off the street, building their life skills, providing positive role models and giving them access to opportunities for employment. The overall aim is to prevent young people from entering a life of crime by providing opportunities to succeed.

Henry Smith, CEO at Aitch Group, founded the charity after losing his brother-in-law to knife crime.

“The It’s a Knock Out afternoon is an incredibly fun way for the property industry to unite – whilst still competing – to raise money for such a worthwhile cause,” Smith said. “This event helps us to raise much needed funds and helps companies with their team building.

“Having lost my brother-in-law to knife crime, I have set out to try and positively impact the lives of the children in east London with the hope of reducing knife crime in the borough and the capital. I am delighted that my peers understand the need for The Wickers Charity.”

Jon Cuthbert, director at Strettons, said: “My team absolutely love the day. It is a win-win, as we raise money for a worthwhile charity but also get the benefit of a team building event. Needless to say we are keen to be involved next year.”