Torbay charity that helped sporting youngsters realise their dreams to come to an end after 20 years

A Torbay charity which has helped dozens of youngsters achieve their sporting dreams is coming to an end after 20 years — but not without a big bang.
March this year marks 20 years since the passing of Trevor Ward, a much-loved teacher, respected sportsman and tireless champion for children and young people.
It also celebrates the remarkable legacy of the Trevor Ward Foundation, led by his son and well-known Paignton cricketer and sportsman Tim, as it concludes its journey after two decades.
Established in Trevor’s memory, the Foundation was created with a simple but powerful aim: to remove financial barriers so that every child, regardless of background, could fulfil their sporting potential.
Central to Trevor’s own life were the values of fair play, sportsmanship and always doing the right thing. They were principles that shaped both the Foundation’s work and the countless young lives he influenced.
Throughout the charity’s lifetime, all fundraising events and donations were reinvested directly into youth sport, ensuring the Foundation’s impact was felt where it mattered most. In total, over £60,000 has been awarded, supporting more than 100 children to access opportunities and giving that additional financial boost where needed.
In addition to individual awards, the Foundation has supported over 12 local sports clubs, strengthening junior sections and sustaining grassroots sport.
Trevor dedicated his life to improving opportunities for children and young people. Alongside his career in education, he was the driving force behind Paignton Playtime, where thousands of children took part in positive summer holiday activities.
In sport, his commitment was extraordinary: Trevor co-founded the Paignton Rugby Club junior section with Dave Worth, before dedicating over 20 years coaching and managing the junior rugby section, and giving more than 25 years of coaching support to the Paignton Cricket Club junior section. He was recognised as a life member of both clubs.
A yearly contribution was made to both Paignton Cricket Club and Paignton Rugby Club youth sections, helping fund coach training and development to ensure safe, high-quality and inspiring experiences for young players.
The donations went to the Trevor Ward Cricket Nets at Paignton and to Paignton RFC’s Sands Road rugby changing facilities.
The Foundation is now inviting the community to come together for one final fundraising event, TrevFest — The Finale Celebration.
It is taking place on March 20 at the Hoburne Holiday Park, Paignton, and will include live from Luke Bingley’s Bubble & Soul Funktion and a hot buffet. Tickets cost £30 each.
This special evening will be a celebration of Trevor’s life, the Foundation’s impact, and the community spirit that has supported it for 20 years.
A Foundation spokesman said: “All final funds raised will be divided equally between Paignton Cricket Club and Paignton Rugby Club youth sections, returning the Foundation’s support to where it all began and ensuring Trevor’s legacy continues through junior sport.”
Sponsors are also warmly invited to support this final event. For sponsorship opportunities please contact: Nigel George on 07501 302309.
The Trust has supported youngsters and clubs across all sports and across the Bay.

Ella Gill scoring runs for Devon in Sri Lanka

Two of the most recipients included Paignton’s young cricket starlet Ella Gill who was given a grant towards the cost of a Devon tour to Sri Lanka and Torquay schoolgirl and South Devon School of Gymnastics’ ‘Little Miss Dynamo’ Willow Mae-Calland who has just made her debut for England in the Caledonia Cup international championships in Scotland winning a team bronze.

Trevor Ward Foundation cheque for Paignton Sailing Club

Support for festivals, golf days, fund-raising dinners and new facilities and new equipment for a variety of clubs from rugby to sailing have also been made.
“As the Trevor Ward Foundation draws to a close, it does so with pride, gratitude and celebration — honouring a man whose belief in fair play, opportunity and doing the right thing has changed lives and will continue to do so for generations, “ said the spokesman.
“We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and deeply grateful to everyone who supported it along the way. Most of all, we are proud of the young people whose lives have been positively shaped by Trevor’s values and the foundation's generosity.

Tim Ward presenting Paignton Rugby Club with The Trevor Ward Foundation plaque. The Foundation provided funding towards the refurbishment of Sands Road changing rooms

“Trevor’s legacy lives on — in every child given a chance to play, to grow, and to believe in themselves.”