Although the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) has – like other charities – been affected by the pandemic, the board has been able to allocate £85,800 to support young people in the year ahead.

Pete Thornton commented, “We are truly grateful to be able to continue to do the work we do in John’s memory.  We are however very conscious that the charity is entirely the sum of its supporters.  Without them there would be no JTYAF, and we are totally overwhelmed by all the kindness and generosity that has made this possible.”

Young people from 19 local youth organisations are set to benefit, with a new organisation to be supported being West Moors Middle School. There is also to be a John Thornton Flying Scholarship for 2021.

The JTYAF has provided a minibus for all the local schools and youth organisations for the last five years but the lease expires in March.  With careful budgeting the charity was able to set aside funds to continue the lease of the current minibus for another five years, providing invaluable support to all the local schools and a great many youth organisations.

The charity was set up in memory of John Thornton, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2008 whilst serving with the Royal Marines.  Over 2,100 young people have benefited from JTYAF support since it was formed.  Funds raised helping them to discover their potential, develop their talents and pursue their ambitions.  The charity has also funded numerous group and whole school projects, ranging from refurbishing the library at Ferndown Upper School to funding an assistance dog at Beaucroft Foundation School.

If you would like to find out more about the work of the JTYAF, or join their team of volunteers, please visit their website. www.jtyaf.org or contact them at jtyaf@outlook.com.