Children's charity Christmas celebration in Ilkley

The Christmas Celebration was held in the Teepees at Ilkley Rugby Club [Photo; Soul & Co]

The Principle Trust Children’s Charity says it is delighted to share the success of its festive Christmas celebration, generously hosted at Ilkley Rugby Club within the stunning Christmas Teepees space kindly gifted by BAR Events UK and supporters Dan and Laura Lakin.

The event welcomed families supported by the Principle Trust Children’s Charity, bringing together children referred through Home Start Craven, Early Help Harrogate and Knaresborough, Foster for Bradford, IDAS Harrogate and Craven, along with others who have enjoyed respite breaks with the charity throughout the year. In total, more than 30 children, accompanied by their parents and carers, joined the Principle Trust team for an afternoon filled with festive fun, creativity, and magical memories.

Five of the charity’s dedicated Trustees: Mike Davies MBE, Andrew Davies, Fraser Gowland, Jamie Kemp, and Sarah Barraclough, were in attendance, alongside volunteers Julie Smith and Debby Holdsworth from Ison Harrison Solicitors and Principle Trust Children’s Charity team Kerry Magson, Lauren Green and Rose Lodge.

The celebration was made possible thanks to the generosity of several local supporters. These included Ison Harrison Solicitors, who provided financial support for the event, as well as Yorkshire Crisps, Arla Foods, Drake and Macefield Family Butchers, who contributed towards refreshments. Agile Workforce also donated volunteer time through Laura Sykes, and photography for the event will be provided by Soul and Co, courtesy of Nicola and Nabin Maharjan.

[Photo: Soul & Co]

Some special contributions came from Adam Hodgkinson of Nutree Life, Ormskirk. Adam generously carries out a Toy Appeal each year in loving memory of his daughter Ava, who sadly passed away. His annual appeal provides Christmas toys and games for children in need; last year, his donations supported The Principle Trust respite homes. Further support came from Liam Burton of Roof Spec, Morley, a Patron of the charity, who has also organised a toy appeal, generously supported by his business connections, friends, and family. Local children from Westville House School also carried out a toy appeal.

Festivities began with a warm welcome and refreshments for families. Children were invited to explore a series of Christmas craft stations, designing cards, decorating baubles, and creating keepsakes to take home. The highlight of the day was a visit to Father Christmas, where each child received a beautifully donated gift. To round off the celebration, children were treated to a light festive lunch before the afternoon drew to a close.

Rose Lodge, Events Coordinator at The Principle Trust, said:

“Welcoming families to share such special moments together is what our charity is all about. Thanks to the incredible kindness of our supporters and partners, we were able to create a joyful and memorable Christmas experience for children who truly deserve it. We are so grateful to everyone who helped make the day possible.”