Ilkley charity founder 'heartbroken' after MBE stolen from home
A local charity is appealing for the public’s help after their founder’s cherished MBE medal was stolen from his home.
Mike Davies, founder of the Principle Trust Children’s Charity, was awarded the medal for services to business and disadvantaged children across Yorkshire.
The MBE was taken from his home in the Ilkley area during a burglary which took place over the weekend.
Mr Davies and the Principle Trust Children’s Charity are now urging anyone with any information to come forward.
Mr Davies said: “Receiving this medal was one of the proudest moments of my life, a recognition not just of me but of the hundreds of volunteers, trustees and supporters who’ve worked tirelessly for children across Yorkshire.
“I am heartbroken that it has been taken, and I appeal to anyone who knows anything about the medal or its whereabouts to please get in touch.”
The Principle Trust has spent more than 15 years providing free respite breaks and support to thousands of children from disadvantaged, disabled, trauma-affected and low-income families throughout Yorkshire.
Mr Davies was inspired to set up the charity after losing his mother to cancer in childhood leaving his father to care for four children while working two daytime jobs.
The Principle Trust has since become an integral part of the Yorkshire charity landscape, with respite breaks offered in locations including Blackpool, Filey and Lake Windermere, giving children a chance to escape the pressures of everyday life.
To date, the charity has provided respite breaks to more than 5,400 children across the region.
Police are investigating the incident, and anyone with information is asked to call 101.
Members of the public are also encouraged to check local online marketplaces in case the stolen safe or medal is being offered for sale.