Two inspiring supporters of The Principle Trust Children’s Charity have gone the extra mile , quite literally, by taking on the TCS London Marathon 2026 and raising an incredible £10,659 to support children and families across Yorkshire.
Thanks to their amazing fundraising efforts, 17 families will now be able to enjoy a much-needed week-long respite break, complete with a food hamper – giving them the chance to rest, reconnect, and create happy memories together.
Joe ticks off a lifelong goal
Running the London Marathon had always been on Joe Gaughan’s bucket list. After years of watching the iconic race from afar, the keen runner from Silsden decided 2026 was his year.
Following months of training, Joe crossed the finish line in an incredible 4 hours and 32 minutes, while smashing his original fundraising target of £4,000 and raising an amazing £5,514.
Joe said:
“The Principle Trust is close to our hearts as a family and as a proud patron through our business, there was only one charity in my mind that I would represent.
On race day, the sun really got me and my legs were done for at 18 kilometres. I struggled the whole way after that but giving up was never an option. I’m proud to have represented the charity finally and will never forget the day as a whole.”
Simon takes on the challenge
For fellow runner Simon Horsfall, taking part in the marathon was inspired by family members who had previously completed the challenge.
As a long-time supporter of The Principle Trust, Simon has built a strong connection with the charity through fundraising initiatives and supporting auctions by donating a holiday home in Bamburgh.
Simon completed the marathon in an impressive 3 hours and 7 minutes and raised an incredible £5,145, after surpassing his £2,000 target early in his training.
Simon said:
“Having three children and loving our own family breaks has made me realise how fortunate we are. I was so proud to represent them in such an amazing event and thankful to The Principle Trust for giving me the opportunity.
It was extremely tough as it was so hot but weirdly enjoyable at the same time.”
The impact of their fundraising
Every pound raised will help The Principle Trust continue providing free respite breaks to children across the region who are facing significant challenges, including mental health difficulties, trauma, abuse, poverty, serious illness, and disability.
Many of the families we support are under immense emotional, physical, and financial pressure, often with little opportunity to spend quality time together or enjoy a break from daily life.
These holidays offer families the chance to step away from difficult circumstances, recharge, reconnect, and create memories that last a lifetime. For many children, it’s a rare opportunity to simply have fun, feel safe, and enjoy being a child.
Thank you
Founder Mike Davies MBE said:
“We are incredibly grateful to both Joe and Simon for their dedication, not only in taking on the challenge of the London Marathon but also for their commitment to fundraising along the way.
These respite breaks offer families the opportunity to rest and recharge, reconnect with one another, and create positive memories that can have a lasting impact on their wellbeing.”
Since launching in 2011, The Principle Trust Children’s Charity has supported almost 6,000 children through free respite breaks across its eight holiday homes in Blackpool, Filey, and the Lake District.
With a 100% donation policy, every penny raised helps create life-changing holidays for families who need them most.
A huge congratulations and thank you to Joe and Simon – your dedication will make a lasting difference to so many families.
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