A CHARITY set up to provide respite breaks for some of Yorkshire’s neediest children has raised £15,000 at a Grand Prix-themed fundraising ball.

The event was organised by Skipton-based children’s charity The Principle Trust, which provides free respite holidays to children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse.

150 supporters donned their glad rags for the black tie bash at Ilkley’s historic Craiglands Hotel, enjoying a night of high-octane racing, drinks, dining and dancing till the small hours.

Among the items auctioned on the night was a cap signed by international Formula One champions Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez which was generously donated by the Red Bull Racing team.

The event was supported by businesses across the Craven district including Skipton businesses Events B3, Quantum Arbiter, Health & Wellbeing Brands and Principle Healthcare, Sutcliffe Construction from Hellifield and Embsay-based companies Crag & Co Accountants and CrossFit Skipton.

The five-figure fundraiser will enable 25 families to benefit from a free week-long respite break. The charity’s new Food For Families initiative will ensure each family also receives a bumper hamper of food and daily essentials to enjoy during their stay.

Launched in 2011, The Principle Trust Children’s Charity was established by businessman Mike Davies, MBE. Over the past decade the Trust has raised over £1m and provided respite breaks for almost 5000 children across the Yorkshire region.

Mr. Davies commented, "Our annual ball is the highlight of our fundraising calendar and, despite the current economic challenges, it continues to be generously supported. The Trust’s 100% donation policy means that every penny raised will fund respite holidays for dozens of needy children and their families."

The event was generously sponsored by Skipton-based Fulcrum Disaster Management, Proctor Landscapes of Askwith and Geenholme Carpets of Otley.