Band of Builders take on the Pavestone Rally to Change Lives in Construction

Team Band of Builders hits the road once again!

I’m Gavin Crane, CEO of Band of Builders, and I was originally due to take on the Pavestone Rally 2025 with my teammate Mark Esling of STARK Building Materials UK. Unfortunately, Mark has had to withdraw at the last minute for family reasons, which is such a shame as so many people were looking forward to seeing him take part and dressed as a Disney Princess. He’ll still be cheering us on from home, but I’ll now be tackling the adventure alongside my good friend and long-standing Band of Builders volunteer, Kent.

Kent has been part of countless Band of Builders projects over the years, giving his time, skills and energy to help make a difference to families in need. I couldn’t ask for a better teammate to share this challenge with.

Yes, Kent and I (both 6ft3) will be squeezing ourselves into the smallest car we could find – a Smart car – and setting off on a wild and wonderful road trip from Düsseldorf to Amsterdam. Comfort is overrated when it’s for a good cause!

We’re proud to be raising funds for Band of Builders and four other incredible UK charities, all making a real difference to people’s lives. Together, they support vital causes ranging from construction workers in crisis to children’s hospices and mental health support. Every mile we cover is about more than just the adventure – it’s about driving real impact back home.

We’re hoping not to have to call on Mark’s colleagues at STARK Group, but we know they’ll be cheering us on (and possibly sending a rescue team if the Smart car throws a strop mid-route). And we won’t be alone – our friends at Talasey Ltd are entering two cars of their own and will be part of our extended rally crew if we hit any bumps in the road.

Back us if you can. Share our story. Cheer us on.
Let’s prove that when the construction industry pulls together, it doesn’t just go far – it changes lives.