Kendal based charity and specialist outdoor centre, Bendrigg Trust, has raised an incredible £24,153 in seven days through the 2020 Big Give Christmas Challenge.

Donations received will go towards the Bendrigg Subsidy Fund, which enables socially and economically disadvantaged people with disabilities to enjoy accessible adventure activity residentials.

The trust smashed its original target of £10,000 in just four hours thanks to the generosity of its supporters, including a £5000 donation from Cicerone Press and other support from individuals, nationwide businesses and local community groups including Carnforth High School, Sign Out Loud, Lake District Radio, PMPT Fitness (Brighton) and Amphigean LTD.

Although unable to run any residential programmes since March, Bendrigg Trust adapted to continue to offer a safe space to families with self-catering breaks, limited-access day activities, and periods when a single family was given sole access to the grounds.

One family said: “My son has been very reluctant to take walks. He has feared people passing us on the lane. This is the first time I’d seen my son have fun, smile & laugh, be at ease for several months! He felt totally safe and reassured at Bendrigg – the staff were awesome and the grounds are amazing.”

Martha Wood, Bendrigg Trust’s fundraising and marketing officer said “We had to set a target for the campaign back in June, and at the time we had no idea what the future would hold due to the uncertainty of the pandemic.

“We were absolutely blown away when the target was smashed within just four hours of the campaign going live.”

Nick Liley, Bendrigg Trust’s principal, said “We are humbled not only by everyone’s donations, but also by the messages of encouragement and support that have been sent to us throughout this very difficult year. Thank you to each and every person who has supported us and donated, we are truly grateful.”