This June, three proud members of the Crown Highways team – Chloe Matthews, Pete Benton and Mark Robinson – are hitting the road in memory of a friend, colleague, and industry figure who left a lasting mark. As they take part in the Keith Baldwin Memorial Rally (KBMR), they’ll be joining an eight-car convoy driving across Europe, raising money and awareness for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Set across three unforgettable days, the KBMR is no ordinary road trip. Starting on 10th June at Plage du Touquet, France, the rally will wind through Luxembourg, the breathtaking Swiss Alps, and Thun, before finishing in style in Nice. Each vehicle is uniquely styled and every team is paired with a “buddy team” to ensure no one is left behind – capturing the true spirit of teamwork that defined Keith Baldwin’s legacy.

The KB in KBMR: In Memory of Keith Baldwin

Keith was the founder of Highway Traffic Management, setting up HTM in 1995, after having worked with the industry for a number of years as a civil engineer.

He was a natural innovator who saw numerous opportunities to develop the business and industry, including setting up new companies to support HTM with their training and design needs to PPE requirements. He was also credited for innovating products such as developing the idea for the first low-level traffic management vehicle (LLTMV).

Keith’s people skills and ability to nurture others to fulfil their potential meant he built a brilliant team to support the business to develop and grow, and in 2017 he moved into the role of Chair to enable his son and HTM’s current leader, Greg Baldwin, to take on the role of Managing Director.
Keith won many awards throughout his highways career, including Best Innovation at the Construction Awards 2014 for the LLTMV, Safety & Innovation at the Mercia Awards 2015, and Best Innovator at Midlands Construction Training Group 2015. He was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to the Industry by CECA Midlands in 2017 and just two years later was awarded the CECA Lifetime Achievement award in 2019.

In 2024, Keith sadly passed away after a short battle against pancreatic cancer.

Driving for a Cause

Keith was passionate about cars, motorsport, and bringing people together. The rally isn’t just about the drive – it’s about camaraderie, challenge, and cause. This rally, taking place in his honour, encapsulates everything he loved: stunning roads, a few competitive twists, great company, and above all, making a difference. Every mile driven is a mile closer to vital research funding and support for those affected by pancreatic cancer.

Chloe, Pete and Mark are proud to represent Crown Highways on the journey, blending adventure with advocacy. With a mix of rally checkpoints, creative vehicle themes, team costumes, and an awards dinner in Nice, the event promises to be both entertaining and emotional.

Health & Safety Manager Pete Benton shared his thoughts ahead of the rally:

“Keith’s passion for people and for life was infectious. Taking part in this rally is a way of keeping that spirit alive while supporting a cause that desperately needs attention. We’re proud to be on the road for Keith – and for everyone fighting pancreatic cancer.”

The rally is part of Crown Highways’ wider charitable efforts in 2025, following initiatives such as ‘March the Month’ for prostate cancer, and their upcoming summer fundraiser for Katharine House Hospice. The KBMR adds to this momentum, reflecting Crown’s strong sense of community – both inside the business and out on the road.

As the engines start and the route unfolds, the Crown team will be flying the flag for Keith, for charity, and for Crown’s enduring commitment to doing good, wherever the journey takes them.

To support the rally or donate to Pancreatic Cancer UK in honour of Keith Baldwin, please contact the Crown Highways team or visit Pancreatic Cancer UK.