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9:42 PM 23rd November 2021
arts

Charity Director Climbs Whernside Dressed as Fairytale Character

 
Charles Tyrer
Charles Tyrer
The Executive Director of a Yorkshire Dales storytelling charity, Settle Stories, is raising funds to secure its future.

Last year, Settle Stories moved its flagship annual event Yorkshire Festival of Story online to support people at a time when they needed connection more than ever. The charity faced closure due to lost revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships. But following a successful fundraising campaign, supporters raised over £15,000 to keep the charity’s outreach programmes going.

Since then, Settle Stories has brought free virtual storytelling to over 70,000 children across the UK. The events aim to inspire the next generation of writers, artists, leaders and thinkers and have included themes around Eid, World Environment Day, Diwali, Black History Month and World Book Day.

One teacher wrote: “Settle Stories is my children's window on the world. They don’t experience other faiths and cultures where we live. These events are helping to broaden their horizons.”

This year, Settle Stories has scrapped ticket sales for Yorkshire Festival of Story once again and needs to raise £15,000 in funds to cover expenses for the event. The festival is offering over 50 free online events, featuring award-winning artists and speakers from around the world.

“What we’re doing is making great art free for everyone, irrespective of their income. Cost of living is a real challenge right now and it can be difficult for people to access in-person events. But we’re helping to cut through those barriers,” said Charles Tyrer, Executive Director at Settle Stories.

To contribute to the charity’s fundraising drive, Charles will do a sponsored walk up Whernside, the highest peak in Yorkshire, dressed in a fairytale costume chosen by his donors. He smashed his £500 Facebook fundraising target within a couple of days and has since increased his goal to £1,000.

“It’s a bit of fun, but it also spreads a message. We’re bringing great storytelling to Yorkshire and beyond and it’s only possible thanks to the support of local people.


Yorkshire Festival of Story runs until November 28th, 2021. View the free online programme: yorkshirefestivalofstory.com

Donate to Charles' fundraiser on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/donate/1262008130971156/4702625596455285/