Local pair will be will run through Skipton this December as part of a huge mission to raise money and hope for children who would otherwise go without this Christmas.
Bus driver Benjamin Heggarty, and friend James Anderson, are calling the mission "Project 127", as part of the 'Heart of the Trail' group. Noting that he is "not a professional athlete", Heggarty has some simple goals:
- raise £100,000
- use every penny to buy gifts for children in care homes, shelters, and families in need
- personally deliver those presents to make sure no child wakes up without something special on Christmas morning
They will be attempting to run the full 127 miles of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal on 6th December, non-stop!
Ben has never attempted anything like this before but is hoping to show that ordinary people can do extraordinary things, as well as bringing the community together to make a huge difference to families and children who will be struggling this Christmas.

Accessibility boost as new changing places toilet opens in Malham
Tourist tax would be 'total game changer', says Mayor
Skipton Charity golf day to be held for 2025 Pride of Britain winner
North Yorkshire taxi drivers call for fare increase to offset Iran War fuel increases
Devolution will fail if decisions are York-centric, say angry North Yorkshire councillors
Craven Lawn Tennis Club to open grounds for fundraising weekend
Tory councillor used photo of tragedy which claimed the lives of 116 children to make point on social media
Airedale Hospital's cancer team launch radiotherapy website
Skipton MP raises concerns over changes to 580 bus service
Lothersdale and Glusburn students to climb Yorkshire Three Peaks for Airedale Hospital
Police investigate assault in Skipton
Glusburn Community & Arts Centre calls for funds to keep the lights on
Northern passengers reminded some train times will change from Sunday
Jumble sale to be held in aid of woman's cancer journey
Thornton Hall Country Park Continues to Grow with New Team Members
Skipton Boxing Club nominated for 'Local Hero' award
Skipton Beer Festival shares 2026 lineup
Clubberthon raises over £7,000 for hospice charity
Your Skipton collaborates with Skipton BID for first visual podcast
Skipton BID to host first ever launch event for Skipton Business Awards 2026


