Northam boy helps bring Christmas cheer to vulnerable children

A 10-year-old boy from Northam and pupil at Appledore School, is making a difference this Christmas with the Tony Hudgell Foundation’s Christmas Present Appeal. 

Jack Hopkins, who has already raised £20,000 for charity, is determined to bring festive joy to children who might otherwise go without gifts.

This year, Jack and his family will be supporting the appeal by collecting and delivering Christmas presents to vulnerable children locally and across the UK. 

Last year, over 170 gifts were distributed, and the family is aiming to exceed that number in 2024.

Donations can be dropped off at Asda in Bideford, where a collection trolley is located near the tills, and financial contributions can be made by texting TONY10 to 70470 to donate £10.

Explaining the reason behind his efforts, Jack’s mother, Katie Roberts, said: “100% of the Christmas Present Appeal donations go towards helping vulnerable children.”

Jack’s journey into fundraising began at just five years old during the first lockdown, when he walked 5km twice a week to raise money for the NHS.

His dedication earned him recognition as a “lockdown legend” with RAAM Exeter, a feature in a Belgian historical museum, and the prestigious British Citizen Youth Award (BCyA).

It was at the BCyA ceremony that he met Tony Hudgell. 

Tony Hudgell’s story is one of extraordinary resilience.

At just 41 days old, he sustained life-threatening injuries caused by his birth parents, leaving him on life support. 

Against all odds, Tony survived and was adopted in 2016, finding safety and love with his new family. 

Sadly, the injuries he endured as a baby resulted in the amputation of both his legs in 2017. Since then, Tony has defied expectations, raising over £2 million for various charities, including £1.8 million for Evelina Children’s Hospital, which saved his life. 

Inspired by Captain Sir Tom Moore, Tony walked over 13.5km on his prosthetic legs and later founded the Tony Hudgell Foundation to support vulnerable children and give them hope for a brighter future.

In 2021, after meeting Tony Hudgell at the BCyA ceremony, Jack was inspired to support the Tony Hudgell Foundation, which enhances the lives of children who have experienced abuse. 

He embarked on a 100-day challenge, running 1km every night in winter, raising over £5,000.

Since becoming an ambassador for the foundation in 2022, Jack has climbed Mount Snowdon on his own, completed a mini Ten Tors on Dartmoor, and opened the Lynton and Lynmouth Railway. 

His achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including the Prime Minister’s Point of Light Award and Northam Mayor’s Community Champion title.

In addition to coordinating the Christmas appeal, Jack has been making handmade candles (£5 each) and wax melts (£3 per pack) to raise additional funds. 

ABOVE: Jack's wax melts

He also turned on Bideford’s Christmas lights on Sunday, celebrating his role as a local hero.

The Tony Hudgell Foundation, inspired by Tony’s story, continues to support children facing adversity, ensuring they experience the magic of Christmas. 

Jack’s commitment exemplifies the power of compassion and determination to make a difference.

To support donations: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/thf-christmaspresentappeal2024