BGF raises £11,000 after completing Castle to Castle charity walk

Members of BGF’s Yorkshire and North East team have taken part in a 27-mile walk along the Northumberland Coast, from Warkworth Castle to Bamburgh Castle – raising more than £11,000 for local charity Simon on the Streets.

The team completed the nine-hour challenge on 13 July for the Leeds-based charity, which works to provide emotional and practical support for homeless and vulnerable people across West Yorkshire. The BGF Foundation had previously made a grant to Simon on the Streets and the team were keen to do more to contribute to their vital work.

The BGF team was made up of Barry Jackson, head of BGF in Yorkshire and the North East, alongside team members Chris Boyes, Linda Nguyenova, James Baker, Rob Johnson, John Healey, Ella Dickson, Rachel Hirst and Joseph Ounsley.

The challenge saw £11,000 raised for Simon on the Streets, allowing the charity to continue providing emotional and practical support for people with complex needs, and its outreach services directly on the streets.

BGF’s Chris Boyes said: “We’re excited to support such an amazing charity, which provides a vital role in supporting vulnerable people in West Yorkshire. It was also an opportunity for the offices in Leeds and Newcastle to come together to support a common cause and the Castle to Castle walk was a great opportunity to bring everyone together.”

“The team faced chilly winds, driving rain and plenty of blisters, but we are delighted to raise an impressive amount for Simon on the Streets. Thank you to all of our sponsors who kindly donated to support our fundraising and we look forward to continuing with our charitable endeavours in the future.”