Over the Easter weekend, three determined fundraisers – Tim, Laura and their head of support crew, Abi – took on one of the toughest endurance events in the world to raise money for charities close to their hearts, including Yorkshire Youth and Music.

The Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race is an ultra-marathon on water: 125 miles from Wiltshire to the heart of London, following the Kennet and Avon Canal and the River Thames. Alongside hours of paddling, competitors must carry their boats around dozens of locks – turning the race into a test of both stamina and determination.

This year proved especially brutal. Of the 80 boats that set off, fewer than half completed the course – the highest drop-out rate in the race’s history. In an incredible feat, Tim and Laura crossed the finish line at Westminster in 29 hours and 23 minutes, placing 34th out of the 37 boats to complete the journey.

Their extraordinary effort raised £3,200 in total, with £800 donated to Yorkshire Youth and Music in memory of Elizabeth Anne (Liz) – a gifted and much-loved musician. Liz’s family have supported our work over many years, and their generosity has played a vital role in developing the Safe Space Studio: a new music-making space designed with and for young people who experience mental health challenges.

The Safe Space Studio continues to offer supervised, open-access sessions for young people, many of whom are not currently in education or work. Thanks to this donation, and the ongoing support of Liz’s family and friends, we are one step closer to creating a space where young people can find confidence, connection and creativity through music.

We are deeply grateful to Tim, Laura and Abi for their incredible achievement – and to Liz’s family for ensuring her love of music continues to inspire and support a new generation.

Each donation we receive helps to support our work with music and young people. Donate now to help us continue this work.