Emerald competes in Dragon Boat race to raise funds for BookTrust

Two teams from Emerald in the UK competed in the race at Bradford’s Dragon Boat Festival.

On Sunday 29th June 2025, Emerald Publishing took to the water to raise money for BookTrust, the UK’s largest children’s reading charity. 

The BookTrust has been chosen as Emerald’s Charity of the Year for 2025 and so far almost £10,000 has been raised for the charity through a series of fundraising activities. 

On the day, two teams from Emerald took part in the race. Row Hard or Row Home was captained by Matt Atkinson and Paddling Publishers was led by Tom Bennett. Matt and Tom were joined by a host of colleagues from Emerald as they competed alongside other businesses to raise funds for their chosen charities. 

Matt Atkinson, VP Sales, Emerald Publishing said: “We’re proud to share that Emerald has raised almost £10,000 for BookTrust so far this year, thanks to a series of inspiring fundraising efforts, including our unforgettable Dragon Boat Race. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible generosity of our supporters and the tireless dedication of our colleagues, who gave it their all with every paddle stroke. Your unwavering support makes a real difference. Thank you!”

Tom Bennett, Chief Financial Officer, Emerald Publishing said: “What an incredible day at the Bradford Dragon Boat Festival! I couldn’t be prouder of our team, most of us complete beginners, yet we pulled together and gave it our all. Even better, we raised a fantastic amount for BookTrust, whose work nurturing young readers across the UK is truly inspiring. A huge thank you to everyone who rowed, cheered, donated, or helped us stay afloat!”

Julie Hayward, Director of Partnerships, BookTrust said: “Emerald Publishing have been amazing advocates for BookTrust, taking on some creative and daring fundraising throughout the past two years to support our work. The money raised will provide impactful and much-needed reading programmes and books to families with young children across the country. Thank you Emerald Publishing for braving the Dragon Boat race for BookTrust!”

If you’d like to support BookTrust you can donate via our JustGiving page. 

ENDS