Charity, Ferndown | Posted on June 18th, 2026 | return to news

Paul’s fundraising is off the scale hitting over £10,000 for JTYAF

A great friend and ambassador of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) has been thanked for his extraordinary fundraising support.

Having raised a remarkable £10,009 over 10 years, Paul first organised an event for the Ferndown-based charity in 2016. The curry night marked the start of a decade of fundraising, friendship and community spirit.

Apart from the unavoidable break caused by the Covid pandemic, Paul continued to organise events in support of John’s charity.

His most recent event, the 7th JTYAF Fly Fishing Day brought together a group of anglers at the lakeside and despite challenging weather, they had a successful day and were treated to Paul’s famous chilli hotdogs – a popular part of the occasion. The amount raised was £307.35 for JTYAF.

Paul, a former neighbour of the Thornton family has become an ambassador for the JTYAF, not only through the money he’s raised but also through the awareness, friendship and community he has helped to build around the charity.

Secretary of the JTYAF, Linda Thornton, said: “We really can’t thank Paul enough for the time, effort and commitment he continues to put into organising his events. His fundraising has made such a difference to the opportunities the JTYAF can offer local young people. Every pound helps to change young lives for the better, but Paul’s support has always been about much more than money. He has helped promote the charity and create a very special JTYAF community.”

Over the years, Paul’s fundraising has brought people together through curry nights, fly fishing days and challenges involving Purbeck Powerlifting Club, giving supporters the chance to enjoy memorable events while helping young people access life-enhancing opportunities.

The JTYAF was founded in memory of Lt John Thornton RM, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2008. The charity supports young people from 19 youth organisations through scholarships, bursaries and funding that help them pursue personal development opportunities and achieve their ambitions.

Linda added: “Paul’s generosity, enthusiasm and friendship are truly appreciated. We feel very lucky to have his continued support, and we know John would have been overwhelmed by everything Paul has done for the Foundation.”

For more information about the JTYAF, visit: www.jtyaf.org