Your Skipton Radio

6:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Katy Perry

Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)

Listen Live Podcasts

Team to push car 130 miles in extraordinary charity challenge inspired by young boy's courage

Tuesday, 4 August 2026 14:52

Team ThisisLuke preparing for the push.

A Yorkshire family is preparing to push a car 130 miles from Sheffield to Silverstone in an incredible fundraising challenge inspired by the remarkable courage of 12-year-old Luke Mortimer.

Luke's Big Push will take place from 23rd to 28th August, with family, friends and supporters taking turns pushing a specially prepared Peugeot 207 over six days to raise money for children's charities that have supported Luke and his family.

Luke was just seven years old when he was rushed to hospital after contracting meningitis in December 2019.

Although doctors saved his life, the illness resulted in all four of his limbs being amputated.

Despite the life-changing challenges he has faced, Luke has become an inspiration to many through his determination, resilience and positive outlook.

Luke went on to win a Pride of Britain award for Child of Courage.

The challenge will see the team cover 130 miles between Sheffield and Silverstone, tackling more than 7,000 feet of climbing and an estimated 57 hours of pushing time.

The journey has been organised to finish at CarFest, the family festival founded by broadcaster Chris Evans.

Since it began in 2012, CarFest has raised more than £28 million for children's charities, many of which have supported Luke and his family throughout their journey.

Their push will raise money for:

Children in Need
Ellen Macarthur Cancer Trust
Rainbow Trust
Teenage Cancer Trust
Starlight
Young Epilepsy

Organisers say the challenge is their way of giving something back while helping other families facing similar circumstances.

The campaign is encouraging people to sponsor every mile of the journey, with all funds raised supporting children's charities connected to CarFest.

Supporters are also being invited to follow Luke's progress throughout the six-day challenge and help spread the word as the team prepares for one of the most demanding charity events of the summer.

Donations and more information about the challenge are available on the campaign's website here.

More from Local news

Only one more day left to enjoy Skipton Cinema Days this summer

There's just one day left for film fans to enjoy Skipton's free outdoor cinema this summer
Hundreds gather in Skipton for another successful Yorkshire Day event

Crowds gathered in their hundreds in Skipton over the weekend for another successful Yorkshire Day celebration.
Safety reminder after rubbish found in Skipton knife bin

Police are reminding residents to use Skipton's knife surrender bin correctly after rubbish left inside created a potential safety risk.
Skipton bakery retains North Yorkshire's best bakery title for second year

A family-run bakery in Skipton has been crowned the best in North Yorkshire for the second year running.
MP raises Cowling speeding concerns with police and council after residents' complaints

Concerns over speeding and road safety in Cowling have been raised with North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Council by Skipton and Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith following reports from local residents.
Right at Home celebrates official opening of new office

The award-winning homecare provider supporting people across Ilkley, Skipton, Keighley and the surrounding area has officially opened its new office.
Wanted man found hiding in wardrobe during Skipton arrest

A man wanted by North Yorkshire Police has been arrested in Skipton after officers discovered him hiding inside a wardrobe.
Addingham Beer Festival returns this October

One of the Wharfedale area's biggest annual events is set to return this autumn.
Nominations open for Local Pub Awards 2026 for Skipton and Ripon

Residents across Skipton and the surrounding area are being invited to nominate their favourite local pubs and hospitality staff as nominations open for the 2026 Local Pub Awards.
Campaigners hand in petition over doubling of second homes council tax

Campaigners opposed to North Yorkshire Council’s double council tax charge on second homes have handed in a petition signed by 1,000 people calling for the premium to be suspended.
Skipton Live Reveals 42-Act Line-up for First Ever Music Festival

Skipton Live has unveiled the full line-up for its inaugural music festival, with 42 acts set to perform across the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Children to travel free on buses across North Yorkshire throughout August

Families in Skipton and across North Yorkshire can enjoy cheaper days out this summer as children are set to travel free on most local bus services throughout August.
Skipton Bakery launches affordable family craft club for summer holidays

A popular Skipton bakery is launching a new family activity aimed at keeping children entertained during the school summer holidays.
The Principle Trust receives £5,000 donation from The Fence Club

The Skipton-based children's charity has received a £5,000 donation that will help provide respite breaks for families caring for children with serious illnesses.
Settle Victoria Hall Beer Festival returns for 2026

The beer festival will be raising funds for The Principle Trust Children’s Charity
WATCH: Jason Manford gives 'honest' review of Leeds Bradford Airport

Comedian Jason Manford has given his 'honest' verdict on Leeds Bradford Airport - praising its staff but joking that the terminal could do with a refresh.
Councillor's charity head-shave fundraising appeal passes £10,000

A fundraising appeal by North Yorkshire councillor Arnold Warneken has passed the £10,000 mark ahead of his charity beard shave at this weekend’s Tockwith Show.
Independent bookshop in Skipton set for new chapter as ownership changes

An independent bookshop in Skipton is preparing to begin a new chapter as it changes ownership this weekend.
Bereavement group appeals for venue donation to expand support to Skipton

A community bereavement support group that has helped hundreds of people across Harrogate is hoping to expand into Skipton.
Silsden Community Centre launches fundraising appeal to unlock £10,000 for community project

The Hive is appealing for support from the local community after launching a fundraising campaign that could unlock £10,000 towards a new activity and youth space.