We are pleased to announce that ‘Victoria’s Wish’ has been selected as the Applebridge Charity of the Year. 

Created by Ian Lawrence of Redcar and his family to honour their daughter Victoria, who passed away in 2022, aged 19 , Victorias Wish supports young people with cancer and life-threatening illnesses. 

Each year, Applebridge Family partners with a charity to make a series of donations and fundraising activities, including its annual charity golf day.  

Managing Director Chris Brown comments: “Supporting the community has never been more important to the group. At Applebridge, we are in a fortunate position, being connected to chief decision makers throughout the construction and business world. 

“With the Charity of the Year initiative we put a focus on supporting charities within our communities that struggle to be seen and heard. When we heard Ian’s story and the objectives for Victoria’s Wish, it was a no-brainer for us to partner with them. We’re excited to see how we can contribute to the cause over the next 12 months, through both monetary means and facilitating charitable activities.” 

Victoria’s Wish works with families to arrange short respite breaks, trips away, annual parties, and pantomime visits, while also helping to secure grants to help with travel, treatment and also sadly, funeral expenses. 

Ian Lawrence Victoria’s Wish founder, commented: “By partnering with Applebridge Family, Victoria's Wish will be able to help even more families affected by life-threatening illnesses. Together, we can create a brighter future for these children and their loved ones , providing them with the support, resources and hope they need to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. We can’t thank Applebridge enough for their support so far and we look forward to the next year with renewed vigour.” 

The appointment of Victoria’s Wish coincides with the conclusion of our partnership with the Ellen Timney Foundation. Throughout the last 12 months, more than £28,000 was donated to the Foundation, a registered charity that was set up to support underprivileged children in the North East.  

It was a partnership that made a huge difference to the charity. Jane Morgan said: “We can’t believe that just over a year ago we were invited along to have a ‘chat’ with Applebridge Family. Even now after being their chosen charity of the year, we still ask ‘why us’? 

“The Applebridge Family has been an absolute godsend and their support means the world to the Ellen Timney Foundation. Adrianna Hughes and Gemma Peacock have supported us with everything we have asked for and more! Their kindness, generosity and just always being there for us, has enabled us to provide assistance to even more local sick and disadvantaged children. From beds to specialist baths, from uniforms to winter coats, from Christmas gifts to pushchairs, nothing has ever been a problem. 

“We are sad the year is at an end, but we would like to wish the next chosen charity all the very best. They are certainly getting the best with the Applebridge Family. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”