News Room

The Travers Foundation wins Rutland Biz Club Award

19/11/2018

Dr Sarah Furness, the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland presented Gretton businessman Terry Forsey with a prestigious local award that celebrates enterprising people in Rutland, at the Falcon Hotel in Uppingham.

The annual Rutland Biz Club Award was awarded to Terry on behalf of The Travers Foundation charity, which he founded. It supports young people in Northamptonshire, Rutland and Leicestershire to achieve outstanding results in sports, performing arts and creative arts.

Terry impressed the Biz Club judges and sponsor The Falcon Hotel, with his innovative vision to set up the foundation that is run entirely by volunteers. In 2017 they raised £32,378 to support 151 young people aged 13 to 30 who have won 139 awards and medals nationally and internationally.

Terry employed the enterprising skills he used to build up his own successful software marketing company to set up the charity to inspire and motivate young people to achieve their goals including Chris Southwell (22) from Oakham who has autism. Chris won Great Britain’s first ever Basketball gold medal at the Special Olympics in Los Angeles in 2015 after receiving £1,250 match funding for his trip from the Travers Foundation.

Terry said: “We are very proud to see our success recognised with the Biz Club Award as it’s is a testimony to all the young people we support and the volunteers who work so tirelessly. The financial support we provide young people helps them to reach for the stars.”

Rutland’s Lord Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness presented Terry with a trophy and a cheque for £500 to spend on a work of art. Terry has already purchased a signed limited-edition print by wildlife artist Ralph Steadman from Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham and this is available as a raffle prize to support the work of the charity. Tickets may be purchased from www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Biz Club President Geoffrey Pointon said: “Terry impressed the judges with his innovative approach to building a charity from scratch. His enterprising vision has helped scores of local young people to achieve their goals using grit, determination and talent to help put Rutland, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire on the map.”

The Biz Club provides networking opportunities for business owners and would be owners with the aim of increasing profitable growth of the smaller business sector. It also develops and encourages communication between politicians and business people. Past speakers include; businesswoman Nicola Horlick, Sir Graham Brady MP and former CBI chief John Cridland. For more information on the Biz Club and forthcoming events visit: www.thebizclub.co.uk

The Travers Foundation is a volunteer run Charity that provides funding and financial support to local 13-30year olds to help them achieve their dreams in sport, music and the arts. For more information on the Travers Foundation visit: www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Read our 2017 Annual Review here
http://www.travers-foundation.org.uk/uploads/5/6/0/0/5600113/travers_annual_review_2017.pdf

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

Gretton Charity Sportive Update - Oliver's Photos Now Available

21/6/2018

A big thank you to everyone who took part in our inaugural Gretton Charity Sportive and made the day such a success.

We are pleased to provide a selection of photos taken by our volunteer photographer Oliver Glynne-Jones.

View all photos here

Gretton Charity Sportive Update - Times now available

19/6/2018

A big thank you to everyone who took part in our inaugural Gretton Charity Sportive and made the day such a success.

We are pleased to provide route times by rider number and ride time. Congratulations to you all and we look forward to welcoming you back to next years event. We will keep you updated via Facebook and email.

115 cyclists raised £3,000 at Gretton Charity Sportive

12/6/2018

Sponsors ECS provided on course support and rescue vehicles for the Gretton Charity Sportive

The inaugural Gretton Charity Sportive attracted 115 cyclists from as far as Gloucester & Leeds to enjoy the Northamptonshire & Rutland countryside on Saturday 9 June. Choosing either a 30 or 64-mile circuit, cyclists matched their skills to the challenge of the course and help raise over £3,000 for The Travers Foundation.

Bruce Donald, Trustee and Event Director said “We are pleased to have attracted so many participants both young and old. Everyone really enjoyed the challenging course as well as the friendly atmosphere and the party that followed. This was a resounding success and looks set to become a popular annual event. I would add special thanks to Electrical Compliance and Safety Limited (ECS) for providing our support and rescue vehicles, ensuring the safety of all riders.”

While the adults were on the road, over 30 young riders enjoyed an off road fun ride at the Gretton Playing Fields. Marshalled by Julie Riley ex-Mayor of Corby and Patron of The Travers Foundation, riders from 4 to 14 completed the grass track with much support from family and friends.

Cyclists and volunteers alike were able to relax and unwind with a barbecue and after event entertainment from The Top Banana Band.

Terry Forsey, Chairman of The Travers Foundation added “I would like to thank the army of willing volunteers who worked hard to create an event they should be proud of. Everyone at The Travers Foundation is a volunteer so every penny raised will go straight to helping local young people achieve their dreams in Sport, the Creative and Performing arts.”

ends

The Travers Foundation is a volunteer run Charity that provides funding and financial support to local 13-30year olds to help them achieve their dreams in sport, music and the arts. For further information please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk<http://www.travers-foundation.org.uk>

Read our 2017 Annual Review here
http://www.travers-foundation.org.uk/uploads/5/6/0/0/5600113/travers_annual_review_2017.pdf

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

Gretton Charity Sportive - Riders Instructions

7/6/2018

To all Riders in the Gretton Charity Sportive, thank you for registering.

With over 75 riders registered, we’re looking forward to a great day!

Please note it is mandatory for ALL cyclists (including kids), to wear a recognised cycling helmet.

Both the 30 and 64 mile routes are on public roads so cyclists must obey the Highway Code at all times.
Below is the information you need to make the day a success and enjoyable for all.

Venue: The event is being held at Gretton Sports & Social Club, Kirby Road, Gretton, NN17 3DB. Car parking will be well signposted and is a short walk from the event. Please use the dedicated car park rather than parking on the street as we need the roads clear for the event.
Toilets & changing facilities including showers: These are available at the sports club and will be open all day. Bags can be left in the changing rooms but this is at your own risk.
Registration: This will be open from 8am at the sports & social club. Here you will be given your event number, which needs to be attached to the front of your bike (cable ties will be provided). If you entered before the 11 May you will also receive your shirt.
Start times & routes: Both routes have a staggered start with groups being set off in 5 minute intervals. The 64 mile route is from 9 – 9:30am and the 30 mile route from 9:30 – 10am. Please make your way to the start line in good time where there will be a briefing about the routes, which will highlight any hazards or changes to the route due to unforeseen circumstances. If you would like to download the route please click on the appropriate link and then on menu -> download and then follow the instructions. Short route (30 miles) or Long route (64 miles). There will be two vans on call to rescue any cyclists who have a mechanical problem or need to quit. The vans will be carrying no spares and are only there to get cyclists back to Gretton sports & social club. If you would like to see how you did we will email the results after the event.
Feed stations: The first feed station for both routes will be at Spokes Café at approx. 22 miles and the second feed station (for the long route only) will be at approx. 50 miles. The feed stations will provide water, flapjacks and an assortment of sweets. Spokes Café do great teas & coffees and amazing cakes if you wish to purchase extra!
Kids ride: Registration for the kids ride opens at midday and they must register before participating. They will be given an event number which needs to be attached to the front of the bike. All participants in the kids ride must be at the start line for 1pm. The kids will be invited to cycle as many laps of the recreation ground and will have their total distance recorded on a personal certificate.
Family and friends in support: Tea, coffee and cakes will be on sale from 10am, courtesy of the Gretton Baptist Church.
Bar & BBQ: The licensed bar will open at 11am with hamburgers & hot dogs being on sale from midday.
Live music: The highly energetic and funky Top Banana Band will get the party started sometime between 2 & 2:30pm (depending on when the last cyclist returns). There is no charge for this so please invite your friends and family to party the afternoon away with you and celebrate in your achievements!!!
Sponsors & volunteers: We also need to thank all our sponsors and volunteers because without them the event wouldn’t go ahead.

Electrical Compliance & Safety Ltd (ECS)

The Blue Bell pub in Gretton
Terry Forsey Consulting

Kettering Roofing Ltd

Fabulous French

Gretton Sports Club

Spokes Café

LAMB & HOLMES SOLICITORS SPONSOR THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION

21/3/2018

(From Left to Right): The Partners from Lamb & Holmes Solicitors Mr Adam Hampton, Mr Edward Lamb, Mr Chris Atkinson with Mr Andrew Hartley and Mr Callum Farr from The Travers Foundation along with Mr Glenn Robinson, Ms Kalminder Kaur and Mr Michael Reed from Lamb & Holmes.

The Travers Foundation have got the ball rolling for 2018 thanks to a generous donation from Lamb & Holmes Solicitors.

The volunteer run charity that helps local 13 to 30 year olds improve their skills in sports, the creative and performing arts will use the donation from Lamb & Holmes, to help 19 year old Golfer, Callum Farr from Gretton, Northamptonshire.

Established in 2012, The Travers Foundation supported one hundred and fifty one young people in 2017 and helped them to achieve an incredible 96 Gold, 25 Silver and 18 Bronze medals.

Terry Forsey, who founded the charity, and works alongside an all-volunteer team, says: “I am delighted that Lamb & Holmes have chosen to support The Travers Foundation. We are a local charity, helping local young people and are proud to be working with a local solicitor who wants to give back to their community.”

Callam Farr has been playing Golf for the last ten years and is a member of the Northamptonshire County Golf Club. He had a successful 2017 competing in the UK and European amateur events, winning The Royal Birkdale Silver Goblet. He also competed in the Faldo Series winning the England Midlands Championship at Trentham in August and achieving a top 10 finish in the Grand Final in Abu Dhabi.

The donation from Lamb & Holmes will contribute towards the coaching and competition support which Callum will receive from The Travers Foundation for the 2018 season.

It is extremely important for Lamb & Holmes to give something back to the local community. A huge number of their existing clients are locally based and having been providing law services for over 200 years, they understand how vital it is to support local charities and groups such as The Travers Foundation.
Glenn Robinson, who is a Partner at Lamb & Holmes, says: “As a responsible local legal firm we’re always keen to support groups and organisations in the areas where we live and work.

“Charitable organisations play such an important role within their communities, so we were only too happy to make a donation to The Travers Foundation and would like to wish them every success for their fundraising attempts this year.”

For further information on the legal services available at Lamb & Holmes Solicitors please visit www.lambandholmes.com. Alternatively please contact the Kettering office on 01536 513 195 or the Corby office on 01536 745 168.

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

THE GRETTON CHARITY SPORTIVE RAISES MONEY FOR LOCAL CHARITY

9/3/2018

Whether you’re an experienced rider on enthusiastic beginner The Gretton Charity Sportive offers something for everyone and raises money for the popular local charity The Travers Foundation.

For cyclists there is the option of a 30-mile route which offer 1800ft of climbing or the more challenging 4100ft climb of the 64-mile route.

The start is at the playing fields in Gretton with a staggered start for the long course from 9am and the shorter route from 9:30am.

Both rides follow the same route to Glapthorn near Oundle before heading back towards Gretton. At Lyddington the long route then heads west and allows you spectacular views of the Eyebrook reservoir. The route then winds its way through the beautiful Welland Valley, with the big test coming at approximately 50 miles up to Neville Holt. There you are rewarded with some spectacular views across the Welland Valley.

The first feed station for both routes is at approximately 22 miles and the second at roughly 50 miles. Showers are available at the Gretton sports club and the licensed bar will open at 11am.

To make this a great family day out, at 1 O’clock the kids will have their turn with an off road fun bike route around the playing fields.

At the same time there is a BBQ sponsored, by the Blue Bell Inn in Gretton, selling food to replenish your energy levels before the excellent Top Banana Band get funky at 2pm.

Bruce Donald, event organiser and Trustee of the Travers Foundation said “The Gretton Charity Sportive is a wonderful opportunity for riders of all abilities to have a great day out and raise money for our charity. The afternoon allows the family to join in and have a good time. We are looking forward to seeing everyone in Gretton in June.”

All proceeds are going to The Travers Foundation and riders will be setting up fundraising pages to show their support.

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit http://www.travers-foundation.org.uk

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The Gretton Cycling Sportive Information – Bruce Donald, The Travers Foundation – 07717 307254
General Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

Our Annual Review has just been published

21/2/2018

The Travers Foundation Annual Review for 2017 is now available. If you click the picture above you will be able to read it.

Our Annual Review for 2017 is now available and includes the following information about our Charity.

- How we support our Young Stars
- How to apply for our support.
- How businesses can support The Travers Foundation
- How individuals can support The Travers Foundation
- Read some stories of Young People we have helped
- Introducing our 2018 Patron, Julie Riley
- Introducing our Trustees
- Check out 2017 in Numbers (See also below)

Numbered Days from Theatre in Black debut

8/2/2018

Well done to Ryan Leder and Theatre in Black, an excellent debut at the Corby Core Theatre for their new show "Numbered Days". Proud to be able to support this local talent!

The Travers Foundation announces former Mayor as their new Patron

16/1/2018

Local charity The Travers Foundation is delighted to announce its new Patron, Julie Riley.

Julie got to know The Travers Foundation when she was the Mayor of Corby 2016 -2017. Her theme for the year was “Children are our future” and The Travers foundation was one of her 2 chosen charities.

During her Mayoral year The Travers Foundation struck a chord with Julie with its support for local young people in the areas of the arts & sport.

With close connections to the arts world, through her husband -a children entertainer Mr Custard and as a former Children’s entertainer herself Julie was encouraged to see the marvellous support afforded young people through the Travers Foundation.

“There is a need for funding support for our young people. Lottery funding only benefits the few. Local young people who want to excel in the arts or in sport deserve funding based on their ability and not the resources of the bank of Mum and Dad. “

“Having met so many of the young people that The Travers Foundation have helped and seen the unfailing passion of the team, this has inspired me to be their Patron for 2018"

New Performance Support is now available for Musical or Theatrical performances

16/1/2018

The Travers Foundation are delighted to announce the introduction of a new level of support aimed at Musical or Theatrical production.

Performance Support is available for groups planning a production or event as follows

The group should be led by a figurehead or Producer who is 13-30 and resides within Northamptonshire, Leicestershire or Rutland.
We will provide support for Audition and Rehearsal costs including premises, musicians and hire of musical or amplification equipment.
We will provide the support for People costs including Actors, Dancers, Singers, Directors, Stage Managers and Musicians during Auditions and Rehearsals. People costs may be claimed for any individuals who are 13-30 and reside within Northamptonshire, Leicestershire or Rutland.

Trustee Martin McEvoy said "Recently we have had several young producers approach us for funding and we found our existing funding models did not fit well to their needs. We are excited to announce our new "Performance Support" funding and feel this fits these groups much better."

Please come to our website and apply at Apply for support

The Big Raffle ... Results

5/12/2017

Thank you to everyone for your help with the Big Raffle, raising over £1,000.

The draw was made on Tuesday 5th December and the winners are…

Lanzarote Holiday for 4 – 00381 Terri Meechan, Corby Radio
Land Rover Experience – 00233 Rachel O, BSPS
Red Letter Day £200 Voucher – 00230 C McLeod
Talbot Gretton, Meal Voucher – 00621 Huw Thomas
Hatton Arms Gretton, Sunday Lunch Meal Voucher – 00341 Rachel Hartley
Gretton Garden Cottage, B&B Voucher – 00618 Gary Tait
The Wind in the Willows, Corby Core Tickets – 00511 P Grant
Much Loved, Corby, Voucher – 00280 Justin Bell

MOCKY HORROR CHARITY EVENT FOR THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION

25/8/2017

Let's do The Time Warp Again

Gretton Village Hall will rock in spectacular, kitsch style on Saturday 07 October when a live cabaret show featuring the music of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” takes to the stage.

The Mocky Horror Tribute Show promises to delight and shock as its cast of professional singers recreate the sights and sounds of the cult classic cinema sensation.

From The Time Warp to Sweet Transvestite, the show is packed full of catchy, crazy numbers, all wrapped up in the raunchiness, humour and outrageousness of the “Rocky Horror Picture Show.”

Proceeds from the event will go to The Travers Foundation, a local volunteer run Charity which helps 13 to 30 years old living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire, improve their skills in sport, music and the arts.

Terry Forsey, Chairman of The Travers Foundation, said:

“I’m delighted the brilliant, flamboyant Mocky Horror Tribute Show will be performing in Gretton. The music and characters in this cult classic are a fabulous celebration of freedom and expression and it promises to be a riotous, highly entertaining evening. I hope to see as many people as possible dressed up as Brad, Janet, or Dr Frank-N-Furter, joining in, singing along and letting their hair down.”

Tickets cost £15 (booking fee applies) and can be purchased from the Travers Foundation website www.travers-foundation.org.uk. Please bring your own drinks, glasses and snacks.

So, get your glad rags off and your stockings on and prepare for a night out you will definitely remember!

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

CORBY'S FORMER MAYOR HANDS OVER THOUSANDS TO LOCAL CHARITIES

11/7/2017

THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION ONE OF TWO TO RECEIVE FUNDS

Following a year in office, the former Mayor of Corby, Cllr Julie Riley, handed over £5,000 to two local charities on Friday 7th July.

Representatives from Cllr Riley’s chosen charities, the Travers Foundations and the Children’s Air Ambulance, were presented with half of the total £5,484 that had been raised over her year as Corby’s Mayor.

In order to raise the money Cllr Riley held a host of events including a Fashion Show, a curry night, a golf competition, a variety show and of course the Mayor’s Annual Dinner.

Cllr Julie Riley, said:

‘It has been a very busy year being Mayor but it was worth every single second in order to be able to hand over money to these two very worthwhile charities.

‘I am very proud to present these cheques to the Travers Foundation and the Children’s Air Ambulance and hope that it goes some way to helping them with the fantastic work that they do for so many in our Borough.

‘I would like to thank each and every person that helped with my events and that contributed to raising this money, whether that was through ticket sales, raffles or just kind hearted donations - every single penny has helped. I would also like to especially thank the Carnival Court for their support throughout my year in office, they have been fantastic’.

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

KINGS HEATH BOXING CLUB AWARDED CLUBMARK ACCREDITATION

4/7/2017

KINGS HEATH BOXING CLUB, NORTHAMPTON

2/7/2017

BEST TEAM AT HARINGEY BOX CUP 2017

Kings heath Team from left to right Len Fuller, assistant coach; James Conway, coach and Club Manager Noel Smith, Nico Leivers and Patrick Smith - Gold medalists And Arthur Daly Head Coach & The Haringey Box Cup!

The members of Kings Heath Boxing club in Northampton have just won best team at the prestigious Haringey Box Cup in London, taking home an amazing five gold medals.

Anthony Joshua has been quoted as saying "The Haringey Box Cup is Europe's biggest international competition", so that gives you some idea of how big this event is in the world of boxing.

Kings Heath Boxing Club is very small and run on a shoestring by two dedicated volunteer coaches, but through hard work and determination from all concerned, they managed to pull off what can only be described as a 'David vs. Goliath' victory against many of the biggest clubs in Europe.

The club, based in Northampton, received funding from The Travers Foundation to help them attend this event. The Travers Foundation is a volunteer-led charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Arthur Daly the head boxing coach described how everything had come together at the right time for the lads from the club, aged over 13. He managed to keep up their morale, persuaded them to carry on against ever-tougher opposition, and they achieved a well-deserved five gold medals.

Their best boxer, Eithan James, who was boxing for England also won, and his score was added to the that of the team making them thoroughly convincing overall winners of best team at the Haringey Box Cup.

With this being an amateur sport there's no prize money, so the club needed help with funding from The Travers Foundation to compete.

Terry Forsey, Chairman of The Travers Foundation, said:

"Kings Heath Boxing Club contacted us about help with funding to get the lads to their recent Haringey Box Cup competition in London, which we were more than happy to provide.

"For them to then go on and win best team - beating major European clubs in the process - is a phenomenal result, and we couldn't be prouder of them. We wish Kings Heath Boxing Club all the best for the future and continued well-deserved success."

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

ANDREW'S 'TOUR DE FRANCE' RAISES £3000!

5/6/2017

FUNDRAISING FOR LOCAL CHARITY THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION

Andrew Hartley (left) and James Firmin (right) are met by Terry Forsey at the Eiffel Tower on Saturday 3rd June.

Languages teacher Andrew Hartley, 51, and his cycling companion James Firmin, undertook a mammoth bike ride from Gretton to Paris to raise money for local charity The Travers Foundation.

This 350 mile journey took the pair four days, and they arrived at the Eiffel Tower on Saturday 3rd June afternoon having set off from Gretton Village Green at 9.30am on Wednesday morning.

A large group of spectators gathered in Gretton on Wednesday 31st May to wish them well and send them on their way, and Lydia's Coffee Shop opened early to supply everyone with bacon rolls and other refreshments. Andrew and James were fully fed and caffeinated before they set off!

They cycled approximately 90 miles a day, and although it was a gruelling journey they cycled along some beautiful rural English lanes - and even managed a brief stop-off at Buckingham Palace en-route. The weather over the Channel was not so welcoming, however, and the pair endured gale-force winds and heavy rain which slightly delayed their arrival in Paris.

The Travers Foundation is a volunteer-run charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Andrew is a volunteer funding team leader of the charity, so works very closely with the beneficiaries and their families and sees close-up how much the charity changes these young people's lives by helping them achieve their dreams.

Terry Forsey, Chairman of the Travers Foundation, said:

"We are so proud of Andrew and James, and it was wonderful to be there to see them arrive safely in Paris at the Eiffel Tower.

"We are very grateful to them, and to everybody who has sponsored them and supported The Travers Foundation. Every penny raised will go to help local young people achieve their dreams in their chosen fields in the arts and sport. Andrew and James are taking now taking a well-earned rest from their saddles!"

The JustGiving page is still open for donations - to sponsor Andrew, and for further information on the Travers Foundation, please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

RETRO-ROCK EVENT RAISES OVER £1000

30/5/2017

CHARITY FUNDRAISER FOR THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION

The Jean Genie 70s and 80s Rock Spectacular which took place at Gretton Village Hall on Sunday 28th May raised over £1000 for The Travers Foundation charity.

The live band - The Andy Warrington Experience - treated the crowd to a masterclass in the best of retro rock, featuring an array of well-known hits from icons such as David Bowie, Eric Clapton, The Jam, The Police, Joy Division and Dire Straits.

Also performing was Corby soloist Kara Hamer, who sang her version of Snow Patrol/Leona Lewis's 'Run' and 'Hopelessly Devoted To You' from Grease. Kara, aged 16 and currently taking her GCSEs, is receiving funding from The Travers Foundation for vocal coaching lessons with Mary King.

The Travers Foundation is a volunteer-led charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Terry Forsey, chairman of The Travers Foundation, said:

"What a night! Over £1000 raised, and every penny will go to support young people in this area achieve their full potential in their chosen fields within sport and the arts.

"Special thanks to The Andy Warrington Experience who were amazing, Kara for being a fantastic 'warm-up' act, all the local companies and individuals who donated raffle prizes, Julie, Mike and Sam at Gretton Stores who were our box office, and to everybody who made this possible and helped in any way and especially to all those people who attended and enjoyed a great night of music and dancing."

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

ROCKING THE 70s & 80s IN GRETTON

8/5/2017

CHARITY EVENT FOR THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION

Gretton's 70s & 80s Rock Spectacular - courtesy of live band The Andy Warrington Experience - is taking place at Gretton Village Hall on Sunday 28th May (Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend) from 8pm.

The Andy Warrington Experience is a top quality covers band, featuring the music of icons including David Bowie, Eric Clapton, The Jam, The Police, Joy Division and Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits.

This is a fundraising event for local charity The Travers Foundation. The Northamptonshire-based volunteer-led charity helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Tickets cost £10 per person and are available from Gretton Post Office. Please bring your own drinks, glasses and snacks.

Terry Forsey, chairman of The Travers Foundation, said:

"We are very grateful to The Andy Warrington Experience for agreeing to perform at our fundraising event in Gretton, and are looking forward to a great night of rocking out to the best in 70s and 80s rock."

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

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Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

The Travers Foundation press releases are carefully crafted by Helen Bach.
If you need any assistance with press releases, blogs, brochures, website content please email Helen here .

MY DREAM IS STILL ALIVE -

1/5/2017

LOCAL COMPOSER WRITES SONG FOR THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION CHARITY

'My Dream Is Still Alive' is the special anthem that local composer Lizzie Turney, aged 21 from Ashley near Market Harborough, has created for The Travers Foundation.

It was premiered at the charity's Young Stars Showcase at the Corby Cube in March of this year, but is now available for everybody to hear through a link on The Travers Foundation website - http://www.travers-foundation.org.uk/my-dream-is-still-alive.html

The song is a tribute to the charity and a celebration of all the young stars it has supported to realise their dreams and fulfil their potential.

The Travers Foundation is a Northamptonshire-based, volunteer-run charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Lizzie sings her own composition on this recording, which highlights the ethereal quality to her voice, and, combined with the delicate lyrics, is reminiscent of the multi-layered productions of Kate Bush or Enya.

Lizzie, who aims to write scores for films and television, is receiving financial assistance from The Travers Foundation to fund a musical production course in London. She is currently studying and composing, experimenting with software and using synthesisers to create a more modern sound.

Terry Forsey, Chairman of The Travers Foundation, said:

"My Dream Is Still Alive is a wonderful piece of music, and we are very grateful to Lizzie for writing it especially for us.

"The lyrics, which we've printed in full on the website, have so much meaning to them, and the anthem serves as an inspirational reminder to all the young people we support to keep on trying and working hard to achieve their dreams."

To hear the song, or further information on the work of the Travers Foundation, please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

The Travers Foundation press releases are carefully crafted by Helen Bach.
If you need any assistance with press releases, blogs, brochures, website content please email Helen here .

Nice interview with Bruce Donald's Marathon Des Sables on BBC Radion Northampton

27/4/2017

You can still sponsor Bruce to the end of April. This can be done here https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mds17

BALLROOM BLITZ AT BLACKPOOL!

27/4/2017

EMILY AND SCOTT CHAMPIONS FOR AN AMAZING THREE YEARS IN A ROW

Local ballroom dancing couple Emily Brown and Scott Wilson headed to Blackpool this Easter and won the British Junior Champions title for a very impressive third year in a row.

Aged just 15, the pair are receiving funding for coaching expenses from local charity The Travers Foundation. The Travers Foundation is a Northamptonshire-based, volunteer-run charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Emily and Scott have danced together since the age of seven, and their achievements are impressive - they are the current UK Junior Sequence Champions, having won the title in 2015, 2016 and 2017; and they have now retained their British Junior Sequence Championship title, having won this in 2015, 2016 and again in 2017.

They will both retire from the Junior ranks when they turn 16.

Emily and Scott performed at The Travers Foundation showcase event at the Corby Cube in March 2017, and wowed the crowd with their impressive tango. The couple have also branched out into Modern Ballroom, finishing third in the British Closed Junior Ballroom Championships at Blackpool in November 2016.

They won the DPA/BDF National League Junior Sequence Award for 2015/2016 and finished third in the DPA/BDF National League Junior Ballroom Award for 2016/2017. These are leagues where the marks gained at weekly competitions all over the country over a 12 month period are totalled to show the six leading couples in each grade at the end of the year.

Terry Forsey, Chairman of The Travers Foundation, said:

"We are absolutely delighted that Emily and Scott have won again at Blackpool - what an amazing achievement! They work so hard, and really deserve this accolade. We are so proud of them, and happy to help them achieve their ambitions. Everybody at The Travers Foundation wishes them all the best for the future."

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

The Travers Foundation press releases are carefully crafted by Helen Bach.
If you need any assistance with press releases, blogs, brochures, website content please email Helen here .

BRUCE'S ULTRA MARATHON SAHARA CHALLENGE RAISES OVER £3200!

25/4/2017

FUNDRAISING FOR LOCAL CHARITIES THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION and UPS 'N' DOWNS

Gretton resident and ex-Northampton Saints rugby player Bruce Donald successfully completed the 2017 Marathon Des Sables, covering over 150 miles in just six days.

Described as the toughest footrace on Earth, this multi-day ultra marathon took place in the Moroccan Sahara Desert.

Bruce was fundraising for two local groups, The Travers Foundation, a volunteer-run charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts, and Ups 'N' Downs, which offers support and advice for families and individuals affected by Down's Syndrome.

To date, Bruce has raised over £3200 in sponsorship monies for the two charities and he is keeping his fundraising page open until the end of April for any further donations.

Terry Forsey, chairman of The Travers Foundation, says:

"What can I say? We're completely in awe of what Bruce has achieved. Not only has he run incredible distances in blistering heat, he's managed to raise over £3200 for two local charities.

"Saying 'thank you' doesn't quite seem enough - and we have bought him numerous pints to help with his rehydration! - but everyone at The Travers Foundation would like to say a very big thank you to Bruce. Every single penny of what he's raised will go to help local youngsters in need."

To donate to Bruce's JustGiving page or for further information on the Travers Foundation visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk and follow the links.

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

The Travers Foundation press releases are carefully crafted by Helen Bach.
If you need any assistance with press releases, blogs, brochures, website content please email Helen here .

TOM SYMONS, BRITISH CHAMPION KICKBOXER

24/4/2017

THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION SPONSORS YOUNGSTER FROM NORTHAMPTON

Tom Symons is a 15-year old kickboxer from Northampton who has just been crowned Men's British Champion at the WFMC British Championships and secured three British titles and two silver medals at the WAKO British Championships.

Tom receives funding from local charity The Travers Foundation who help with the costs of training and competitions. The Travers Foundation is a volunteer-run charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

At the recent WFMC British Championships Tom entered in four categories, two for Points and Light Con, in both the -65kg and -70kg weight categories in his age group, 13-17 years.

He took gold in both Points categories so became British Champion in those; he took bronze in -65kg Light Con and then found he had no-one in his age range to compete against in the -70kg Light Con so he was asked if he'd compete in the Adults' category. Which he did, by his own admission with some trepidation, and he won, so he is now Men's British Champion at the age of just 15 - quite an achievement!

From here, he headed to the WAKO British Championships where he entered in two age categories, both the Older Cadets (13-15) and Juniors (16-18), a decision he took because he'll be moving up to the Junior category at the European Championships in August.

He entered the -69kg weight category for Points and Light Con, and the -74kg juniors division in Points as well. He had tough opposition in his Light Con fights, but took the gold and retained his British title in the Older Cadets age category, but was narrowly beaten and took silver in the Junior division.

In the Points fights, he won the -69kg for Older Cadets and gained his second WAKO British title for 2017. He then won silver in the -69kg Juniors after a particularly tough fight with his GB team mate Fin Wright. This was followed by the -74kg Junior division, where Tom battled his way to another gold, making that a third WAKO 2017 British title.

In summary, his weekend at the WAKO British Championships secured three British titles, two silver medals and hopefully secured his position on the WAKO GB squad.

From here Tom then headed to the Irish Open, held between 3rd and 5th March, and achieved a further three silver medals.

Terry Forsey, chairman of the Travers Foundation, said:

"Tom's had yet another magnificent year of competition success. He works and trains really hard, and we are delighted to be able to assist him to achieve his dreams of being a champion kickboxer. We are so proud of what he has achieved and wish him continued success."

For further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

The Travers Foundation press releases are carefully crafted by Helen Bach.
If you need any assistance with press releases, blogs, brochures, website content please email Helen here .

ANDREW'S TOUR DE FRANCE - STARTING IN GRETTON!

20/4/2017

FUNDRAISING FOR LOCAL CHARITY THE TRAVERS FOUNDATION

Local languages teacher Andrew Hartley, 51, from Gretton is undertaking a mammoth cycle journey. While not quite the Tour De France, he is cycling some 350 miles from Gretton in Northamptonshire to Paris, France (returning via Eurostar).

Starting on 31st May, Andrew anticipates that this trek will take around four days. He is being accompanied by fellow local cycling enthusiast James Firmin.

The pair will set off - Le Grand Départ - from Gretton Village Green at 9am on Wednesday 31st May and people are encouraged to come along and wish them Bon Voyage! People are also welcome to cycle with them during any of the stages:

Stage one - 31st May - Gretton to Welwyn Garden City;
Stage two - 1st June - Welwyn Garden City to Burgess Hill (near Brighton);
Stage three - 2nd June - Burgess Hill to Gournay-en-Bray in Picardie (France);
Stage four - 3rd June - Gournay-en-Bray to Paris, aiming to arrive at the Eiffel Tower at approximately 4pm.

Andrew is fundraising for The Travers Foundation, a volunteer-run charity which helps 13 to 30 year olds living in Northamptonshire, Rutland or Leicestershire improve their skills in sports, the creative arts and the performing arts.

Andrew is a volunteer funding team leader of the charity, so works very closely with the beneficiaries and their families and sees close-up how much the charity changes these young people's lives by helping them achieve their dreams.

He is being met at The Eiffel Tower in Paris by charity chairman Terry Forsey and his wife Susan, and by trustee Martin McEvoy and his partner Jo Lister.

Andrew says: "Having worked closely with The Travers Foundation for a number of years I've seen first-hand the difference we are making in the lives of these young people we support. I have been training for a number of months, and while I know this journey will be gruelling, I'm hopeful we can raise lots of money for the charity, safe in the knowledge that every penny will be spent on the young people who need our help."

Terry Forsey, chairman of The Travers Foundation, says:

"We are very grateful to Andrew for all the voluntary work he puts into the charity and also for undertaking this huge journey to raise funds for The Travers Foundation. We are looking forward to meeting him in Paris, complete with supplies and I'm guessing a much-needed support cushion for his return journey!"

Supporters may sponsor Andrew, and for further information on the work of the Travers Foundation please visit www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Ends

Press information – Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation – 01536 771440
The Travers Foundation - registered charity number 1154203

The Travers Foundation press releases are carefully crafted by Helen Bach.
If you need any assistance with press releases, blogs, brochures, website content please email Helen here .

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