At the back end of March I lost my dad. In his memory I am going on a yearlong campaign to raise £50,000 that will be split 50/50 between two charities.  The charities the Stephen Laws Memorial Year aims to raise money relate to the two areas of his life, beyond his family, that really stood as having a major influence and positive impact on him. He spent 22 years serving in the army, which included over 15 years in Germany and a 6 months stint in the Falklands just days after the war ended. His other great passion was supporting Sunderland which he did with great interest from an early age right up to him passing away in March this year.

This “just-giving” page will look to raise half of the £50,000 target for the Foundation of Light, which is the registered charity of Sunderland AFC. They use the power of football to involve, inspire and educate young people and their families through a broad range of innovative programs. Last year they helped improve the lives of more than 40,000 people across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham. The Countess of Wessex is the Royal Patron of the Foundation of Light.  

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.