I know where you're coming from MandyMoo. Approached the three sponsors below first, and thankfully they said yes. I have used all their services before so approaching them face to face was easier. Since then I've had real problems getting any interest at all, especially using written correspondance. None MINI related companies have been a none starter
The response from work colleagues has been very mixed too. Have stopped offering them the opportunity to buy the lottery tickets, and just give them the form. I found that people that have consistantly sponsored me £5 in the past are buying £1-2 of lottery tickets. Stick a form in front of them and they usually put £5-10. Have also found that friends and colleagues have politiely ignored emails with links to my just giving page, so now I pay them a personal visit. Will point out that I always ask nicely, and would never force anyone to sponsor me.
Lottery tickets are now reserved for those people I don't know so well, when I need an angle to convince them.
Devious and hard I know, but that's just the way it is.
After my whinging above I would like to point out that some friends, family, and colleagues have made substantial pledges (way more than expected) and for this I am very grateful. MINI 2 members have been great.
And again I cannot thank the companies below enough for helping Team 43 participate this year. Without their help we wouldn't be there.