The Royal Navy is preparing to dispatch two rugby teams to Skipton in March to partake in a special fundraising event for Luke Mortimer. The event, scheduled to take place at Skipton Rugby Club on March 23, will feature a match between the ‘Luke 15’ team and the Prince of Wales Aircraft Carrier team, as well as a contest between Skipton Roses and the Royal Navy Ladies. Following the matches, a black-tie dinner will be held at Hotel Rendezvous, Skipton, including an auction of donated items conducted by Philip Serrell, known from television’s Bargain Hunt and Flog it!
This will not be the inaugural occasion in which the Royal Navy has rallied to support Luke. In 2020, a team from the Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales visited Skipton for a fundraising event, resulting in both teams playing to a 24-24 draw and raising over £15,000 for Luke’s ongoing needs.
At a mere 11 years old, Luke resides in Embsay with his family and was recently recognised as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s 2,238th “Point of Light” for his exceptional volunteer work in the community. Luke’s remarkable fundraising efforts, such as climbing 656ft up Embsay Crag to raise money for Children in Need and LimbPower, have garnered media attention, ultimately raising £26,000 against an initial goal of £500.
The upcoming rugby match is one of many events being organised to raise money for Luke’s ongoing needs and other charities. On June 27, a golf day will be held at Skipton Golf Club, followed by a team of approximately 30 individuals attempting to climb the National Three Peaks and the Yorkshire Three Peaks in under 48 hours the next day.
In addition to supporting Luke, the fundraising efforts will also benefit Amp Camp Kids, a charity for which Luke is an ambassador, which provides holidays in Spain for children who have suffered an amputation and their families.
For those wishing to support ThisisLuke, the fundraising page link is: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Lukes6peak. More information on fundraising and how to get involved can be found by searching “Thisisluke” on Facebook. Adam is also soliciting sponsorship for the events and items to auction at Hotel Rendezvous. Those interested in providing assistance can contact Adam via email at: [email protected].
In recognition of his remarkable efforts, Luke was awarded the Point of Light award from Skipton MP Julian Smith, who described him as “a hugely impressive young man” and praised his determination in the face of adversity.
The upcoming fundraising events are a testament to the incredible community spirit and determination to support Luke and those in need. It is heartening to witness people coming together to make a difference and support a young individual like Luke. We encourage everyone to mark their calendars and show their support for Luke and his exceptional fundraising efforts!