Charity | Posted on July 24th, 2025 | return to news
McLaren driver takes ‘pole position’ at Dorset cancer charity
Poole-based McLaren driver Sam Bird has become a patron of the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation, Dorset View’s charity of the year for 2025.
A Poole-based race car driver for McLaren has accepted an invitation to become a patron for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).
Formula E driver Sam Bird, 38, is a long-standing supporter and ambassador of the charity, which provides financial assistance to families facing hardship because of a cancer diagnosis.
Bird joins fellow DCCF patrons Jeff Mostyn and Harry Redknapp.
Currently preparing for the London E-Prix on 25–27 July, Bird said: “I first became aware of the work of the DCCF through my mother Diane, who is a trustee of the charity, and supporting its events has grown to become an important part of my life here in Dorset.
“Through the DCCF, I have met many people struggling to cope with the dual pressures of a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship. I have also seen how hard this small but very passionate charity works to take away some of that pressure, and the huge difference that makes to peoples’ lives.
“I am honoured to accept the position of DCCF patron, and the opportunity to raise awareness and funds for its work supporting local families living in the shadow of cancer.”
Since it was formed in 2012, the DCCF and its’ fundraisers have gifted over £800,000 in non-returnable grants to enable local cancer patients to meet the costs of accommodation, transport to and from hospital, utility bills and respite breaks.
Bird and his partner, the television personality and charity ambassador Jess Impiazzi, are regulars at DCCF events and took part in its Enduro 60 Karting event held at South Coast Karting, Chapel Gate in Christchurch in November 2024. The event saw 13 teams from motoring businesses across the region take part in a 40-lap practice session, followed by a 120-lap race.
Chris Thomas, chairman of the DCCF, said: “Sam is everything we could ask for in a patron; empathetic, enthusiastic, passionate about helping others and firmly rooted in the Dorset community. We are thrilled to welcome him in his official role and look forward to working with him to continue the success of the charity.”
To find out more about the charity, visit https://www.dccf.co.uk.
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