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2024
Saturday 23rd November 2024 : from 7pm : Blewbury Village Hall OX11 9QQ
Seriously Collins : The Genuine Tribute Show
Experience the Magic of Phil Collins and Genesis
Early Bird Tickets, £22, available here from Friday 20th September
£25 from 1st November
Get ready to be transported back in time to relive the legendary hits of Phil Collins and Genesis! "Seriously Collins" is not just a tribute show; it's an electrifying journey through the music that has touched hearts and defined an era.
Incredible Vocals:
Be mesmerized by the uncanny vocal resemblance of the frontman, capturing the soulful sound of Phil Collins with astonishing precision.
Captivating Performance:
Talented musicians and performers recreate the energy, charm, and charisma of the original band, delivering an unforgettable experience.
Immerse Yourself:
Feel the nostalgia and passion as you're transported to the prime of Phil Collins and Genesis, reliving their iconic concerts and magical moments.
No Gimmicks:
Just a genuine tribute to one of the biggest artists of our generation.
Morgan is off to the London Contemporary Dance School
We were bowled over by the quality of Morgan's recent application to the Trust and are very pleased to be able to help him. Here's just some of what he told us about himself.
I am writing to apply for financial assistance to support my studies at the London Contemporary Dance School, where I have been accepted to pursue a Dance BA (Hons) degree at The Place. This opportunity is a significant step towards achieving my dream of becoming a professional dancer and contributing to the performing arts in general. I am a truly passionate dancer, and I have been developing my talent for many years now. I am eager to contribute to the arts community both locally and globally.
I have demonstrated a strong commitment to dance and the performing arts throughout my academic and extracurricular journey. In 2023, I successfully auditioned for the National Youth Dance Company (NYDC) and completed residencies during my second year of sixth form whilst still giving my all to perform for my School and contribute to its Performing Arts department.
The National Youth Dance Company experience culminated in a nationwide tour across England in July 2024, after which I graduated from NYDC. Additionally, I was honoured to perform at the U Dance National Festival with the Nuclear Dance Company, representing my school.
My passion for dance extends beyond performance. I have been actively involved in teaching dance companies, supporting choreographies, and conducting workshops for both my school and NYDC, sharing my knowledge, inspiring young dancers and supporting the motto “boys dance too”.
Participating in various international competitions has further honed my skills and broadened my perspective on the global dance scene.
New Play Equipment for Blewbury School
The Trust were delighted to support Blewbury School in acquiring some new play equipment for the youngest children and then to be invited to officially open it earlier this term.
Greetings Cards Now On Sale
These super greetings cards from paintings of Blewbury by Peter Ritson are now on sale at Savages and the Post Office in Blewbury.
All profits will go to The Tony Loy Trust. Thanks so much Peter.
News from Alex and Owen
Last year Alex was supported by the Trust to continue his work with Oxford City Girls Under-11 football team; his brother Owen similarly. So we were delighted when they got in touch recently with news of their team's successes.
Last season your funding allowed our team to have some new equipment; a bench for the team on match days, a set of footballs, a set of cones and bibs for our training.
In our first year we got to the final of the League Cup. Sadly we lost in the final but it wasn’t a problem because we won the League and we also won our first tournament of the season. Alex
The funding provided by your trust enabled me to complete my FA Level 1 coaching badge and for us to get some new equipment for the team including a bench which was very much used throughout the season.
The girls' team massively improved from both Alex's and my better knowledge and had a great season overall, managing to win the League but come runners up in the Cup, but still had an amazing run throughout the season. Owen
£2500 raised at our Celebratory Concert!
Thank you to everyone who contributed in any way to making our Celebratory Concert such a memorable, joyous and successful evening. We are delighted to announce that the proceeds from ticket sales and donations is an incredible £2500. This will go a long way towards supporting more young people in following their dreams.
Our host for the evening, George Brooks, introduced the beneficiaries performing for us and read news from some of those unable to join us.
BlewSing, long-time supporters of the Trust, conducted by Mark Stanley, sang a number of songs, opening the show with Alleluia! Alleluia! and returning with He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother in the second half.
There was dance from Angels Performing Arts.
Finally a chance to get together with other beneficiaries who were able to join us. From left to right, Mia, Zak, Simeon, Jack, George, Megan, Molly.
And saxophonist Simeon Lord rounded off the evening with a number of jazz standards, ably accompanied by Jennie Beard on piano.
Megan Hughes, star of Netflix's The Worst Witch sang Part Of Your World from The Little Mermaid.
Thank you too to Blewbury Brass Band who welcomed us at the North Door. We enjoyed several songs they played for us including this rendition of Yesterday.
Time to Celebrate!
The Tony Loy Trust has now provided £57,000 in grants to well over a hundred individuals, organisations and projects.
To mark this achievement we are holding a Celebration Concert on
Saturday 1st June 2024
7.30pm
St. Michael's Church, Blewbury
Join us to listen to and watch some of the beneficiaries of the Trust
plus other invited guests
Tickets £15 to include a glass of wine or soft drink
Starring Simeon Lord
Jazz Saxophonist
And featuring Megan Hughes
plus
Angels Performing Arts
amongst others
2023
That's The Way To Do It ...... Undefeated to date!
Having supported Harwell and Hendred Stripes in their first season, with purchase of their team strip, the Trust was delighted to hear their news in the run up to Christmas and to see them proudly donning their silver medals.
Hope you’re all well and enjoying the busy run up to Christmas. I wanted to updated you with our team’s progress. I am delighted to report that they ended the first leg of their season undefeated!
An absolutely incredible achievement for a newly formed team. Due to their outstanding performances, they qualified to compete in the Oxfordshire Youth Football League tournament. They found themselves playing against teams ranked several bands/leagues above their own, and played with such heart and determination. They exceeded all expectations and came second for the entire tournament! As parents and coaches, we could not be prouder of how they played and how they have bonded as a team.
We all wanted to thank you so much for your donation and support, allowing us to enable the boys to become the wonderful team we witnessed today. It really has meant the world. On behalf of the players, parents, and coaches, thank you!
Surprise for Oxford City Girls
18 year old Alex, from Blewbury, applied to the Trust. He is massively in love with sport and has played football since the age of 5. We think his dad played football with Tony Loy.
Recently Alex joined Ignite Sports, a company that offers sports apprenticeships in Oxford. Before that, he studied with Velocity in Oxford, as well as playing football full time. In July he finished his 2nd and final year where he finished with 3 Distinction stars, a grade of which he is extremely proud.
He is currently completing a Level 4 sports apprenticeship where he is coaching children in the local community in Oxford. He currently manages the Oxford City Girls under-11 team, which can be tough due to lack of equipment. He asked for a proportion of the funding money to go towards equipment for the girls' football team, as well as paying for his coaching badges. When we asked what equipment he said – new kit, new balls and a bench. He thought he would surprise them with the bench as he knew that would make them very happy. It looks as though it did!
Break A Leg, George!
The Trust has supported George for several years now. We have seen him grow from a talented young actor, through drama school, to now, about to launch his own theatre company for which he has written and produced his first play.
Thank you for keeping in touch George and we wish you all the best for your rehearsed reading of The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret.
Dear Trustees,
As Autumn has officially arrived I figured it's a great time to reflect, to send thanks and update those who have helped me on my journey through drama school and beyond. The money you have given has helped me massively with my training and post-graduation life which has now reached a very exciting point in my development.
This year I have been working on writing and producing my very first show 'The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret' with my very own theatre company 'Linnet Theatre'. We are now at a very exciting point where we are sending out emails into the industry announcing ourselves and claiming our space in the world, setting our mission as a company and selling our show to producers.
I have attached the artistic pack which we will be sending to theatres and producers inviting them to the rehearsed reading of our show on the 10th of November.
Feel free to have a look at the process of which you have been a massive part and I couldn't be more grateful. Of course if you would like a ticket to the reading you would also be more than welcome. Please email me and I can organise a couple of complimentary tickets for you.
Once again thank you so much for your belief in myself as an Actor, Artist and a Theatre-maker.
Harwell and Hendred Stripes
The Trust was recently approached by the newly-formed Harwell and Hendred Stripes FC U8's and is delighted to have been able to provide financial assistance for purchase of the boys' striking black and blue-striped strip. Here they are looking splendid before their first ever game and some words from their manager.
I wanted to write you a little update on the team you sponsored. The boys of the newly formed “Harwell and Hendred Stripes FC U8’s” took the the field this morning for their first ever football match together. They were absolutely brilliant. All nerves were left behind on the side of the pitch, with all the boys full of excitement and energy to get playing their first game. They played with such heart and joy, it was an absolute delight to watch and support. The cherry on the cake was the team winning 2-0, a perfect way to start their season and boost their confidence going forward.
Thank you again for your support. The boys were speechless when we revealed their very own kit, which we could only buy due to your donation. It meant the world to them.
I will be sure to keep you updated as the season progresses, everyone is looking forward to the next match, although we are all very much hoping for a much cooler day for it!
Podium Finish for Zak at Brands Hatch
As the racing season progresses, Zak has a great weekend at Brands Hatch finishing Race 1, the sprint race, in 3rd place and gaining that all important spot on the podium. Congratulations Zak, the silverware suits you!
Below you can read Zak's detailed account of the meeting.
A great weekend for me and the team. Great to see a few of you and to share the moment. Hopefully the first of many podiums together.
FP1 - P11, after Snetterton the team and I wanted to try a new setting with the bike which we put in the bike but unfortunately it didn't work as we liked but it was something we had to try with the new tyres we have this year.
FP2 - P7 +0.7 to P1, FP2 was now really our first session to get used to the bike. We ended with a strong time and also knew there was still plenty to come from myself and the bike for Qualifying the next day.
Qualifying - P8 +0.8 to P1, only 0.3 seconds would have placed me on the front row that's how close it was. We improved our time in every session. A lot of traffic on the closing laps stopped us from getting higher but we knew we could do something from where we were on the grid.
Sprint Race - P3, Our very first British SuperSport Podium in our Rookie season. A great jump off the line and a few moves on the opening corners put us into P4 by turn 2, throughout the opening lap we progressed to P2 where we were for the majority of the race just behind first but unfortunately a rider behind came past and crashed infront of me causing me to slow right down to avoid and lose the gap to first, then another rider managed to just catch me on the closing laps and ended with a 3rd position.
Warm up - only managed 2 laps due to a gearbox breaking. We swapped and got ready for race 2.
Feature Race - Starting P7, we got an okay start keeping our position into turn 1, passed a couple into turn 2 and held 5th for a few laps, just behind the lead group. I then noticed after lap 1 that the water temperature was sky high at over 105 degrees and throughout the race the power decreased lap by lap but we managed to hold off and get some more solid points on the board. We now know the head gasket went.
Thank you all for making this happen. Looking forward to catching you all over the season, next stop is my local round at Thruxton 11/12/13th August.
Simeon at All Saints
Although his time in the Junior Department of the Royal School of Music has come to an end, Simeon continues to excel as a saxophonist and as a musician in general, having gained a DipABRSM with Distinction.
We were, therefore, delighted to be invited to a jazz concert at All Saints Church in Didcot that he gave with guitarist Hugh Turner and surprise guest Howard King on double bass. We were treated to such pieces as East of the Sun and Alone Together.
Thank you Simeon and we look forward to hearing more from you in the future.
Uptonogood? Again?
To meet its aim of supporting young people to follow their dreams in either sport or the arts, the Trust raises money throughout the year. Donations are very welcome (please see our Donate tab above) as is fundraising by individuals or groups. If you have a money-making idea please do get in touch (via the Contact tab above, found by hovering over the About Us tab).
This year Sarah raised £1200 in sponsorship when she took part again in Uptonogood?, a local cycle event, with friends and fellow supporters of the Trust. Although the day began with a few showers they completed the 12-mile off-road circuit of the Berkshire Downs in some lovely sunshine, arriving back in time for a few refreshments!
Thank you Sarah!
World Ranking for Jack
The Trust has supported triathlete Jack for several years and loves hearing of his continued success. Here's his latest news.
...I was ranked in the top 200 of long course triathletes in the world at the end of last year. I was also fortunate enough to compete in my first ever world championships in Slovakia in August 2022 in which I finished 22nd in the world. Thanks to your support, alongside these championships, I was also able to race at multiple professional triathlon races across the globe including Challenge Gdansk in Poland and Clash Miami in the USA!
Your support has allowed me to compete at a higher echelon of elite triathlon year-on-year and without your help I wouldn’t be where I am today. It has also helped fund a lot of my day-to-day equipment, such as running trainers and repairs for my bike which are essential when training multiple times per day and has helped to cover some of the other financial costs involved with triathlon such as travel to international races across the world.
Looking forward to this year, I have another professional middle-distance triathlon race calendar lined-up, including the European Middle Distance Championships in Belgium this September. I also have several other long-course triathlon races planned including Ironman 70.3 Swansea and Challenge London.
I would like to conclude by thanking you once again for all the support you have shown me over the past few years.
Zak is back!
It's been 11 months since Zak's last race in May 2022 when he sustained serious injuries from a high speed crash at Donington Park. Thanks Zak for telling us about your first race this season...great to see you back!
Firstly I would like to thank you for supporting and getting us back on the grid after a tough 2022 season. It was amazing to finally get back out and finish the two races at Silverstone in the points.
The four days testing at Donington and Silverstone one week prior to Round 1 didn’t go as planned due to the great British weather. We managed just 30 laps/35mins over the course of 4 days, out of a maximum of 480 hours that we could have had if the weather had been good to us.
Round 1, Silverstone, we started on the back foot with a lack of testing but issues we would have found in testing we had in Free Practice 1 (FP1), it began with clutch issues and we managed 4 laps in that session then FP2 we had a spill mid-session which did not help the situation and we ended the day in P12.
Saturday QUALIFYING and SPRINT RACE - Throughout qualifying we started well but the quicker we got, an issue with the suspension occurred and meant we could not get a great lap time and ended P17. Starting P17 meant we had a lot of work to do in the race, we got a good start, made up a few positions but as soon
as we relaxed into the race the issue with the suspension started to happen again so I decided to just back it off a touch and finished the race in P12, gaining some points and some valuable seat time.
Sunday FEATURE RACE - Our lap time from Saturday’s race determined our position for Sunday’s race, we started from P18 and that meant we had work to do again. Overnight we swapped out the front forks so we could get rid of the issue all together instead of trying to fix it. I tested out the suspension in the morning warm up and it felt much better so I knew I could push on. In the race we had a great battle with old rival Jack Nixon and beat him to finish P11, some more points on the board and making progress.
Overall it was a great weekend and great to be back with the team doing what I love! We had a few issues throughout the weekend but we all worked hard to correct them and move in the right direction. Massive thanks to the team for the hard work - can’t wait for Round 2 at Oulton Park 29/30/1st May.
2022
Didcot Rugby Union Football Club has been busy raising funds
Earlier this year youngsters from Didcot Rugby Club took part in a sponsored run on Boundary Park. Covering the distance from Didcot to Twickenham they raised money to purchase new training kit for the U11 Boys' team, the cost of which The Trust were also delighted to contribute. We look forward to some photos when the kit arrives!
Thank you again for the bursary that contributed to the advancement in my musical studies and for supporting me going forward in 2022 - 2023.
The Trust is delighted to be able to support Simeon for another year as he continues to attend the Royal College of Music's Junior Department in London on Saturdays.
He has provided us with extensive detail of his time with the RCMJD last year. Here are some excerpts.
Each Saturday began at nine o’clock with a classical saxophone ensemble led by the marvellous Sarah Markham. From this I went into Chamber Choir for another hour.
After the first two hours of my morning I had an hour of one-to-one jazz saxophone tuition with the legendary Mornington Lockett (a leading London professional). This year he has helped me develop my stylistic jazz improvisation and since the summer has guided me with looking at conservatoires to apply to.
To round off the day I would have a rehearsal with Big Band led by Mornington Lockett. Big Band has had two major gigs this year at top London venues. The summer began with a performance at the 606 Club in Chelsea. This is a very well known jazz club that hosts top of the range professional performers. As the summer continued we prepared for a late night special at the Royal Albert Hall in their stunning Elgar Room. These are two experiences that I hugely enjoyed and will never forget.
Simeon's Saturdays
£1000
Thank you!
Last weekend's Take That Experience raised over £1000 and it looks like everyone had a great evening!
They're back!
The Take That Experience
returns to Blewbury on
Saturday 24th September 2022
7.30pm Blewbury Village Hall
Tickets £25
On General Sale Saturday 25th June
Limited capacity - avoid disappointment!
Email tonyloytrust@gmail.com for information on early access to tickets.
Thank you for supporting the Trust in this exciting fund-raising event. We look forward to seeing you there!
A 2022 update from Ben...
Thanks Ben for keeping us up-to-date. It sounds like you have an amazing summer ahead.
Last time I emailed these were my words, "As 2022 is approaching, this is the most excited I have been for a season in a long time. Training is going really well and I can’t wait to race indoors in the new year, followed by outdoors in the summer."
Now 2022 is underway I wanted to write to let the Trust know how I’m getting on. I have just finished my indoor season. This was only two competitions but both were significant. In the first one I ran a new indoor personal best over the 800m (1:49.29). The second was the British Indoor Athletics Championships. With it being my second year back at 800m the goal was to go there and just be competitive. Much to my surprise I managed to make the final and then go on to finish 4th!
The Trust played a massive part in this, contributing to race entries and top treatment. The Trust has also helped towards funding a warm weather training trip I have coming up at the end of March to help prepare for outdoors. As a result I would like to say another MASSIVE thank you for the Trust's support, as always it is much appreciated.
Oxfordshire's first Girls Football Club
Whilst other football clubs may have girls' teams, Blewbury Amazons is the first all girls football club to be established in Oxfordshire and the Trust is delighted to have been able to support the club in its inaugural season.
In a remarkable first season, the club has no fewer than seven teams taking part in the different age groups and divisions of the Oxfordshire Girls Football League.
Named as follows, U12 Assassins, U12 Warriors, U11, U9 Avengers, U9 Gladiators, U8 Spartans and U8 Valkyries, it is easy to see that the girls are keen to live up to the clubs name. In Greek mythology, the Amazons were a race of female warriors and hunters who matched men in physical agility and strength and were noted for their skills, courage and pride.
We wish them all every success.
Angels Performing Arts off to The West End
Celebrating their ten year anniversary, Angels is a local performing arts school based in Didcot. Teaching a range of dance disciplines, acro, singing and acting, Angels offers local children the opportunity to find and develop their joy, confidence and ability in performing at local events and in competitions.
However, this summer they have been given the opportunity to attend dance and performance workshops at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London's West End. The children are so excited to gain experience and spend time with professional performers, building their skills, and self-confidence. The fact that they will be able to perform on an actual West End stage is the stuff of dreams.
Angels is in full fundraising mode. As well as preparing for upcoming competitions and showcases, they are hoping to raise as much of the total cost of the workshops as possible, determined that no-one should be left out and that families should not be burdened with the cost.
The Trust is delighted to have been able to donate towards this wonderful experience.
Phoebe at The Royal College of Music
Phoebe grew up in North Moreton, attended Didcot Girls' School and recently graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music, where she studied classical voice under the tutelage of Jane Irwin.
Throughout her undergraduate study, Phoebe was regularly chosen to represent the RNCM in large-scale performances, gaining operatic experience as Soeur Saint Charles in Dialogues des Carmelites, Nancy in Albert Herring, Miss Todd in The Old Maid and the Thief, and Mrs Sedley/Auntie in Peter Grimes (RNCM Scenes and RNCM Conducting Masterclass).
She was also selected as an RNCM Songster and placed on the External Engagements List. In the summer of 2020 she was set to make her professional debut as a Young Artist at Buxton Opera House and in the British Youth Opera chorus.
The Trust are very pleased to be supporting Phoebe now, in her postgraduate study at The Royal College of Music in London. She receives weekly vocal tuition from world-class practitioners alongside vital advice and support to advance her career in such a competitive industry. It was lovely to receive news from Phoebe on how her first term has gone.
I am incredibly grateful for the financial support The Tony Loy Trust has provided me this academic year. My first term of postgraduate study at the Royal College of Music has been a real success. I am relishing the opportunity to hone my craft and collaborate with exceptional musicians and tutors.
This upcoming term, I have several exciting projects and performances. I am particularly thrilled to be performing in the RCM Opera Scenes, as it is my first opportunity to sing in the Britten Theatre. I will be singing the roles of Nancy in Britten’s Albert Herring on Friday 4th February, and as Cherubino in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro on Tuesday 8th February.
In the summer term, I am greatly looking forward to performing the role of Stewardess in Jonathan Dove’s Flight with the Royal College of Music Opera Studio. The show run begins on Wednesday 29th June, and I will be performing in both casts.
2021
News from Professional Triathlete Jack
We can't help but be impressed by Jack's achievements.
I’d like to say a huge thank you for your continued support. It has allowed me to compete at a higher echelon of elite triathlon year-on-year, and without your help I wouldn’t be where I am today!
Last year I was able to have the biggest and most successful season of my career, racing some of the best triathletes in the world over middle-distance triathlon. In late 2021 I gained my status as a ‘professional triathlete’ and I was invited to compete in half-ironman races across the globe.
In July I was fortunate enough to be selected for the European U23 Duathlon Championships in which I finished 10th despite a big bike crash!
In September I flew out to Salou in Spain to compete in my first professional middle-distance triathlon race.
I was also selected to race for my first ever French Grand Prix team based in Lyon, Southern France. Racing for them last summer was an incredible opportunity and one I look forward to again this year.
Also looking ahead to this year, I have been given the huge opportunity to go out and compete in the United States in early March. This triathlon format suits me, and I believe it would be a huge platform to excel to the very top of professional triathlon.
Thank you once again for all the support you have shown me over the past few years.
Thank you for keeping us up-to-date Jack.
All the best for 2022!
News from Ben - England 800m Champion
The Trust has been delighted to support Ben over a number of years, watching his athletics career develop and enjoying his success. As always it is lovely to hear from those we support and Ben is no exception. Here is his latest news and like him, we can't wait for 2022!
I would like to say a massive thank you to the Tony Loy Trust for supporting me again this year.
This has been a great year for me. Having moved up from 400m to 800m I was able to become the England 800m Champion which led me to go on and represent England at the Manchester International where I picked up another win. The Trust played a big part in making this happen, helping with treatment, race entry and kit.
As 2022 is approaching, this is the most excited I have been for a season in a long time. Training is going really well and I can’t wait to race indoors in the new year, followed by outdoors in the summer.
Piano for St. Birinus School
In 2017 the Trust was able to help with the purchase of a new piano for Didcot Girls' School and keyboards for Sutton Courtenay Primary School in 2019. The Ridgeway Education Trust comprises these two schools along with St. Birinus School in Didcot. Therefore, the Trust was delighted that it could support the provision of a new piano this year at St. Birinus School.
The School chose to purchase a Kawai K15E upright to replace a very old piano which was a lovely instrument in its time, but no longer suitable for significant regular use.
The piano is used for student practice, classroom ensembles and piano lessons. It is estimated that during a 20-year lifespan, the piano will provide individual piano lessons for around 1000 students, be part of other instrumental/vocal lessons for thousands more and provide inspiration not only for those but for many thousands of students when used during curriculum lessons.
A huge thank you to everyone who supported The Take That Experience - we raised a whopping...
£1900 £1900 £1900
Here are some of the lovely comments we received after our fantastic fundraiser.
Thank you to Sheila and team for putting on a great night with The Take That Experience. We had so much fun.
Lots of laughter! Can't remember when I last had the back of my hand stamped! Thanks Sheila, just what we all needed.
Such a fun evening!
Thank you Sheila Loy and Blewbury, we had a wonderful time. Blewbury is a special place.
Great night, thank you.
Tickets for The Take That Experience are On Sale NOW!
Tickets for the much awaited tribute band The Take That Experience are now on sale - simply follow the link below and
thank you for supporting the Trust in this exciting fund-raising event. We look forward to seeing you there!
Saturday 18th September 2021 - 7.30pm
Blewbury Village Hall - Tickets £25
The Take That Experience brings you all the classic songs you know and love, from the 90’s through to the present, including smash hits ‘Pray’, ‘Relight My Fire’, ‘Patience’, ‘Shine’ and ‘These Days’.
The band features a permanent ‘Robbie’ who brings alive songs such as ‘Angels’, ‘Rock DJ’ and ‘Candy’ to an already explosive show. The boys don’t just give you a show you’ll ‘never forget’… they give you The Take That Experience!
The Small Print!
The event is open to adults (18+) and entry is by ticket only.
Tickets may only be purchased online and will be sent electronically via an order confirmation email. You must bring your tickets to the venue.
Tickets cannot be refunded after purchase unless the performance is cancelled.
Upon admission audience members will be hand-stamped to ensure security.
It is not permitted to bring your own drink into the venue. There is a bar.
All electronic devices including cameras and mobile phones must be switched off during the performance.
Please do not attend if you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19.
We advise that audience members are double vaccinated and/or take a lateral flow test up to 48 hours prior to attending.
The wearing of a mask is advisory.
The venue will be ventilated, doors and windows will be open and CO2 levels monitored.
Contact details will be retained for 21 days for NHS Test and Trace purposes.
If you have any queries please email tonyloytrust@gmail.com
Coming to Blewbury - The Take That Experience
The Tony Loy Trust is very excited to announce that the Number One Tribute Band to Take That – The Take That Experience is coming to Blewbury (Village Hall) on Saturday September 18th 2021.
Amazing vocals, stunning costumes, electrifying dance routines, The Take That Experience bring you all the classic songs you know and love, from the 90’s through to the present, including smash hits ‘Pray’, ‘Relight My Fire’, ‘Patience’, ‘Shine’ and ‘These Days’.
The band features a permanent ‘Robbie’ who brings alive songs such as ‘Angels’, ‘Rock DJ’ and ‘Candy’ to an already explosive show!
Tickets will be limited. If you are interested in coming to this event and want to join the mailing list for further information – please email tonyloytrust@gmail.com
as he begins the 2021 season with continued support from the Trust. Thanks for your news Zak - loving our logo on your suit!
More from Zak
The season is just around the corner. It's been so good to get back into racing again these past couple of years. After a great 2020 finishing 3rd in my debut season in the British championships, we have joined Binch Racing on board their brand new Yamaha R6. We have had a great first test topping the time sheets in all sessions by 1.6 seconds. My goal is to be crowned British Champion. I would like to thank all at The Tony Loy Trust for your continued support over the years.
2020
Top Performance from Zak
In a year when much sport has fallen victim to the pandemic, Zak has been fortunate enough to take part in several Pirelli National Superstock 600 Championship races and the Trust is delighted to have sponsored him again.
Here he is finishing 2nd at Snetterton back in August, after some impressive finishing places in the free practice, qualifying and warm up rounds too, as he describes below.
Dear All,
Yet another successful weekend racing in the Pirelli National Superstock 600 Championship, after not riding this track in three years myself and the team did a great job in adapting the bike to the circuit.
FP1 - P1, a great first session, made a few minor adjustments to the suspension mid-session which only made me more comfortable.
FP2 - P1, another good session bettering my first session time and setting my fastest lap time around the Snetterton 300 circuit at the time, also giving me a massive confidence boost going into Qualifying.
Qualifying - P4, the session started great sitting P2 all the way up until the final lap then dropped a couple places to 4th, not exactly what we wanted but I knew I could go quicker with a new set of tyres on. After qualifying we went on down to Ktech Suspension and got our forks and rear shock serviced as it had been a while.
Warm Up - P3, the bike felt completely different, took a few laps to adjust and get the oils working again properly.
Race - P2, really happy to get one step closer to the win, the race came all the way down to the last lap. Throughout the race I was still adapting to the newly serviced suspension but it began to feel much better only a few laps in and setting my current PB lap time of a 1.54.4 fastest lap of the race by 0.3secs and faster than the previous year's winners, each lap I would make a gap of a few bike length through the infield but always lose it down the long straights to the new 636 and R6 making it almost impossible to pull away. Overall, great weekend, learnt a lot, can't wait for Silverstone in a weeks time.
I would like to thank you all for your continued support over the past years. Sitting P2 in the standings, the championship race is now on!
Cheers,
Zak
2019
🥉Ben takes Bronze!
We recently shared news from Backflip Ben ahead of his trip to Tokyo. Here's the latest from Ben with the chance to see his medal-winning runs.
*** CONGRATULATIONS Ben on your amazing achievement ***
This was the 4th time I had qualified for the World Championships, unable to compete in 2018 because of injury, I had made the final on both the other 2 occasions. Taking 5th in 2016 and 8th in 2017. This is my final year as a 17-21 aged gymnast, so was the perfect way to exit as I prepare to compete as a senior gymnast in 2020.
Having already received the news that I am part of the GB Senior Squad for the 2020 season, next up is European Trials in March ahead of a new domestic season. But now for a well-deserved rest and back to University to catch up with my studies. As a final year student, on a 4 year combined Masters in Chiropractic, 2020 will be another busy year as I balance my tumbling training with the demands of the lecture theatre and clinic.
Thank you once again for being part of my World Age Championship Bronze Medal experience in Tokyo 2019.
This is a huge thank you for your financial support towards my competition in Japan. It has been an amazing experience, capped off with winning a World Age Group Tumbling Bronze medal on Friday morning UK time.
I competed in a strong field, of the top 30 gymnasts in the 17-21 age group, from around the world. I also had the honour of performing in the brand new Ariake Gymnastics Centre in central Tokyo, the gymnastic venue for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
After an 11 hour flight last weekend, and a +9 hour time difference, the first challenge was to cope with a whole missed night of sleep. By Tuesday's first track session I was feeling a lot better and getting back into my tumbling stride. By Wednesday I had started to get used to the feel of the new track as I warmed up all my competition runs.
After a day of rest on Thursday, the competition started on Friday morning. I was drawn in the last group of 3 and had already seen some strong scores coming in. I knew that I would have to perform to my best to reach the top 8 final. I had two strong runs, combining my double somersault ‘transition’ moves in the middle of the track, with a well executed end skill and solid landing on both tumbles. Delivering a combined score of 69.700, just 0.600 off my personal best. This was enough to top the score board in a very tight qualifying round with only 2 marks separating me from one of my fellow GB gymnasts back in 8th position. We would join a strong field of gymnasts with 2 Russians, 3 Danes and 1 Brazilian completing the line up for the world title. With the scores now back to zero, we would compete from 8th place in qualifying to 1st. I had the advantage of going last in this single run shoot out!
Tumbling is all about combining the difficulty mark for your run with an execution mark out of 30 for the accuracy of your moves. In the final all gymnasts increased their difficulty tariff from qualifying. I competed my highest difficulty tariff of 8 as I attempted to compete against 2 leading Russians with difficulty tariffs of 9 and 10 respectively. I had already shown the best execution scores of the field in qualifying, but fighting back up to 2 marks would be a tough test. I performed a double somersault twisting transition in the middle of the run and then landed my triple twisting double somersault on the end mat, with only a small step. As I walked back down the arena floor, with my coach Mikey Barnes at my side, I wondered whether I had done enough for a world medal. With a tense wait a score of 34.800 flashed up and I slotted into the bronze medal position, 0.300 from silver and 0.600 from gold! An amazingly close final and I am so pleased to be taking a bronze medal back to GB.
Thank you so much...
A big thank you to everyone who supported The Definitive Rat Pack Christmas Show. We are thrilled with the donation of £6535. Special thanks to The Definitive Rat Pack, all the sponsors and helpers and of course the audience.
The Trustees
Here are Ben and Mia, representing The Tony Loy Trust at The Definitive Rat Pack Christmas Show - giving 'Frank' and 'Dean' a helping hand with the raffle draw.
You can read more about Ben and Mia below.
Backflip Ben is Back!
You might remember Backflip Ben from 2017...well the Trust is very pleased to be able to support Ben again as he heads off to the World Age Tumbling Championships in Tokyo. Do watch his video, it's impressive stuff! Thank you Ben for writing to us with your ups, and your downs, over the last two years. We're glad you've made such a good recovery from your injury and look forward to hearing how you get on in Tokyo. 🏅🏅🏅🏅🏅
Since we last communicated back in 2017 I had, with your help, a very successful 2017 World Championships, finishing 8th in the world in the 17-21 age group. Returning to the UK in late 2017 I prepared well for the 2018 season. Taking Gold in both of the British Championships Qualifiers, I went into the British Finals with confidence. However, a reoccurrence of a previous lower spine injury in the lead up to the finals meant I had to limit my training and left me in pain going into the finals. With great determination I took Gold at the British Championships and went on to gain a place in the GB team for the 2018 World Age Championships in Russia.
Following a scan on my back I unfortunately had to retire from the team and start on further rehabilitation ahead of the 2019 season.
This year has seen me steadily progress, build up the difficulty of my skills and reach some big milestones. I took Gold at both British Qualifiers. I also won the English Tumbling title and followed this up 2 weeks later with the British title, registering a score of 70.3, breaking the 70 point barrier for the first time - a score considered a marker for senior tumblers. I am currently undefeated in GB since the start of the 2018 season.
The reward for my work over the past two years is a place in the GB team for the forthcoming World Championships in Tokyo Japan. I leave for Japan with the British Squad at the end of November for the week long event.
A Good Season for Mia
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the money that the trust gave me, I really appreciate this and it has enabled me to buy new spikes and other kit.
My running has gone well this season and I’ve had some good races and good times throughout various sprinting distances.
Sorry it’s taken me so long to send this but my mum gets excited at events and forgets
to take photos (so thanks to Del Thrower who took some photos, I now finally have some!).
I’ve got one more competition left this season and then it’s onto more training and possibly cross country over the winter. Thanks again, I really appreciate the trust's support.
Thank you for writing Mia - keep us posted!
Letter from Cameron
Here's another letter the Trust received recently - thank you Cameron, it's lovely to hear what you're up to and how the Trust has been able to help.
Cameron has just graduated from Read College in Reading where the Trust supported him on a one year Foundation Course in Acting.
I would just like to say a huge thank you to The Tony Loy Trust. Without your support I wouldn't have been able to go to this amazing school that as equipped me with the skills, knowledge and confidence to get me into drama school. In September I will be enrolling at PPA (Performance Preparation Academy) in Guildford where I will be training on their BA Hons. Musical Theatre Degree, accredited by De Montfort University. '
Performance Preparation Academy has quickly become recognised as one of the UK’s leading institutes for exceptional performing arts training, with a strong emphasis made on employability and the needs of the profession delivered in a nurturing and supportive environment. Located in the heart of Guildford’s vibrant town centre in state-of-the-art facilities, PPA’s courses in both Musical Theatre and Acting for Stage and Screen offer a challenging, life affirming and inspirational vocational theatre training, where all students are valued as an individual and trained by a dedicated teaching faculty of highly experienced industry professionals. PPA Celebrated its 10th Anniversary in 2018'
I would love to show my support by performing at any events the Trust has organised for example board meetings or fundraising events, as I would love to continue the support the Trust has given me. I am planning to put on a concert of my own and would love to invite the Trust to come and see all the amazing work that I have been working on.
Again thank you so much for your support, please keep me updated on any events that the charity is putting on. You really do make a massive difference and I can't thank you enough.
Letter from James
The Trust loves to receive news from anyone it has supported but to hear from someone, like James, one of the first young beneficiaries, is particularly heart-warming. Thank you James for taking the time to write.
As you know, a few years back The Tony Loy Trust granted me some money towards my further education. This money went towards my books which were essential in my 3 years at University. Since then I have been fortunate to graduate from The University of Nottingham with a First Class Honours Degree in Physiotherapy. I thought I would let you know where this grant has helped me get to today.
I have now been working in the NHS for roughly 2 years, and am currently working on the Intensive Care Unit as a Respiratory Physiotherapist in Nottingham. Most people get very confused when I say this, as what does a Physio do on ICU?
The role involves getting patients back to their functional baseline after a long period in hospital, weaning patients from mechanical ventilation, interpreting chest X-rays and blood gases of the acutely unwell patients, and helping treat respiratory failure using airway secretion clearance techniques and certain machines to help re-recruit lung tissue which may be collapsed.
The job does unfortunately come with a lot of unsociable hours, involving weekend working and being on-call for emergencies throughout the night. However, I really do love my work and feel very passionately about what I do.
Without the support from The Tony Loy Trust during my academic years I may not have progressed to where I am today, so I just want to say a massive thank you for your generous contribution!
Kindest regards,
James Thwaites
Congratulations Del on completing the Snowdon Triple Challenge!
What a feat.
Please see below for more information on Del's preparation over the last few months and it's not too late to support him and donate to the Trust - just click on the Donate button opposite!
All money raised by Del will be donated to the Trust. He has set up a Virgin moneygiving page where you can find out more and support Del by making a donation directly to his chosen cause.
Please give whatever you can. Del was a good friend of Tony's and is, therefore, looking to raise as much as he possibly can to support the work of the Trust set up in Tony's name, to encourage young people in the Arts and in Sport.
Thank you so much Del - loving the t-shirt too!
Tickets still available, but not many! Contact us now at definitiveratpackblewbury@gmail.com
Christmas
All profits from this event will be shared between the Blewbury Village Hall Refurbishment Fund, The Tony Loy Trust and other local causes.
The Definitive Rat Pack and their wonderful Christmas Show come to Blewbury
for two nights only on Friday November 29th and Saturday November 30th 2019.
We welcome the original West End cast - Stephen Triffitt – Frank Sinatra, Mark Adams – Dean Martin and our very own George Daniel Long – Sammy Davis Jr. The Rats will be accompanied by a six-piece live band and a female guest singer.
There is a two-tier price package:
Premier Package - At a table, free glass of fizz, canapes, free programme. Tickets £65 per person.
Limited Package - a small number of chairs around the venue – free programme. Tickets £35 per person.
The only way to get tickets, which are limited due to capacity, is by contacting us at definitiveratpackblewbury@gmail.com
Congratulations Beth!
The Trust has just heard Beth's fantastic news - she's in Switzerland and has been selected by GB Snowsport to represent GB at the weekend’s OPA Games (the European U18 Championships), AND the races are doubling as the test event for the Lausanne 2020 Youth Olympic Games! Go Beth! We wish you all the best. ⛷
Thanks too for keeping us up to speed with other things you've been up to...night skiing in France and using February's snowfall in the UK to fit in some practice in the fields above Blewbury!
Del's Triple Challenge - 11th May 2019
Much of the Trust's news is about the young people it has helped to follow their dreams. However, none of that would be possible without your kind donations and the generosity of people like Del, raising money to continue the work of the Trust.
All money raised by Del will be donated to the Trust. He has set up a Virgin moneygiving page where you can find out more and support Del by making a donation directly to his chosen cause.
Please give whatever you can. Del was a good friend of Tony's and is, therefore, looking to raise as much as he possibly can to support the work of the Trust set up in Tony's name, to encourage young people in the Arts and in Sport. Good luck Del, we shall be rooting for you.
Not averse to pushing himself, Del completed the London to Brighton (75 miles) Off-Road Bike Ride, in his 40’s and looking for a similar challenge in his 50’s came across the Snowdon Triple Challenge.
He's training hard, walking on The Downs and cycling along local highways in preparation for a 10.5 mile cycle along the shore of Llyn Padam (Llanberis Lake), swapping his bike for his boots and the 9 mile ascent and descent of Mount Snowdon before finally completing a 2.5 mile kayak across Llyn Padam.
In this age of electronic devices, Del is also using this challenge to encourage his children to spend more time taking part in outdoor activities and keeping fit.
He's even roped them in to part of the challenge! After seeing him off at the start, Del's family are going to trek up and down Snowdon, hoping to meet Del at the summit and then rescue him at the end of the kayak.
2018
Old and New Faces
After a series of frustrations with his bike in 2018, Zak is ready for the 2019 season, riding his Kawasaki ZX6 in the British SuperStock 600 Championship.
The Trust is always delighted to hear from Zak, voted UK Clubsport 600 Rider of the Year for 2017, and is very happy to be providing him with further support.
The Trust has recently provided financial support for Cameron as he embarks on a 1 Year Foundation Course in Acting at Read College in Reading. Cameron was awarded one of just two scholarships available for the 2018 intake. He has performed in productions at many local theatres and has achieved highly in the Irish Dance Great Britain Championships. Good luck Cameron as you follow your dream, we wish you all the best. Let us know how you're getting on.
Beth retains British Rollerski Titles
Beth continues to excel, retaining several titles during the summer Rollerski season, including U18 British Champion. As the winter season gets underway the Trust are very pleased to be able to support Beth again with travel to several European events. Here is just some of her recent news. Thanks for writing Beth and Good Luck!
I have been continuing with my training and rollerskiing in preparation for the winter. The 2018 GB rollerski season has just finished and I am pleased to say that I retained my U18 British Champion and GB Rollerski Series titles, and this year I also won the U18 Scottish Series title.
Next week I am off to Sweden for the first race camp of the winter on snow. This winter is an important one for me as I am hoping to qualify for the European Youth Olympics (EYO) or the U18 European Championships in Switzerland. Unfortunately the BOA have massively upped the qualification criteria for the EYO so it looks unlikely that any British-based nordic skier will qualify (in actual fact only three British skiers have ever achieved the standards they are now asking for!). So it is more probable that my goal will be the European Championships.
George dances his way to Guildford School of Acting
George's talents were well-known to the Trust and so it was no surprise to hear he had gained a place at the highly regarded Guildford School of Acting, to follow their Foundation Programme in Acting. Delighted to be asked to help, the Trust has supported George in purchasing dance shoes for some extra classes he is taking. Thanks for letting us know how you're getting on George and how useful the shoes have been!
I just wanted to contact you to thank you for your generous support. I am now several weeks into my course and the money that you gave me has already allowed me to buy two types of dance shoes for lessons being taught by industry professionals. These classes will help me to make the most of my time here and will hopefully give me a wider range of roles later.
The dance lessons are in the evenings, after a 9-7 timetable so the course is totally immersive. As an example, while I am writing this letter I am listening to recordings of a monologue that I will be performing tomorrow. We have to learn up to three monologues a week and I'm enjoying classes in improvisation, speech, Shakespeare, contemporary theatre, singing, stage combat, movement etc.
A massive thank you, I am having an amazing time and I have learnt so much already. It wouldn't be the same experience without the support from you.
Update: all-weather surface in the Goalmouth at Tickers Folly Field is installed!
The new surface is installed and it's great to see it being used. Here's the first footballing talent, keen to make use of it within minutes!
Huge thanks again to Tony's colleagues at Sutcliffe Play and thank you so much to everyone who has donated. It's never too late to donate, especially if you are enjoying using it!
Can you help? Please donate to Goalmouth Glory at Tickers Folly Field
In 2014 The Tony Loy Trust installed a permanent goal at Tickers Folly Field in Blewbury. Since then hundreds of people, young and old, have enjoyed shooting at goal and practising their penalties. Who knows maybe the next Harry Kane is among them.
Unfortunately the ground in front of the goal is now bare earth and this makes the goal unusable for a large part of the year.
The Tony Loy Trust, in partnership with Blewbury Parish Council (BPC) and Blewbury Village Society (BVS), is fundraising for a fabulous all-weather surface for the goalmouth so that our footballers can use the goal all year round.
We are aiming to raise £4000 as soon as possible so that the surface can be installed in the autumn. The BVS have got us off to a great start by donating £500 - thank you so much.
Please can you help by making a donation and also passing this on to your footballing friends.
For further information and to make a donation please follow the link and visit
European Triathlon Gold for Jack
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The Trust has been closely following triathlete Jack who competed in the recent European Championships in Glasgow. After a 750m swim, 20k bike ride and 5k run in Strathclyde Country Park, Jack won gold in the youngest, 16-19 age group. However, his time of 1:03:30 was the 2nd fastest time of any age group! He has already qualified for the World Championships to be held in Lausanne, Switzerland in 2019. Congratulations Jack on your tremendous achievement!
Best gets Better and Better
U23 National Champion
A recent message from Ben...
I just want to say another massive thank you to the trust for the continued support this year. It has been my best year in the sport so far and the trust has helped me achieve a new PB and my first national title. Hopefully this support can continue and even more goals can be reached. Thanks again, Ben
2018 has been a fantastic season for Ben. We have been delighted to see him (more than once) running 400m in a personal best time; currently 46.59s which he ran at the IFAM in Oordegem, Belgium.
With a 100m PB of 10.79s, Ben can run a blistering final 100m as he showed in Bedford when he became U23 National Champion (see below).
Just look at the distance between him and the rest of the field!
Here's Ben again - taking gold in the 400m at the 2018 England Athletics and National Championships held in Bedford recently, thus becoming the U23 National Champion in a time of 47.42s.
Congratulations Ben - keep the good news coming!
Update: Place for Young Star!
Zenith has now been successful in gaining a place in her age category (Young Stars 3) at the British Solo Ice Dance Championships to be held in Sheffield from July 10th - 12th. This is fantastic news. The Trust is delighted that all Zenith's hard work and commitment has paid off. We wish her all the best and look forward to hearing more from Zenith in the future.
Ice Dancing Zenith
The Trust is constantly learning of local talent. A recent application from Zenith was no exception. At just 11 years old Zenith is hoping to qualify in her age category for the British Solo Ice Dance Open competition this year, having reached the standard required but now needing to perform well enough at qualifiers.
The Trust is delighted to be able to support Zenith with her training expenses...four trips a week to the ice rink, as well as the cost of entry to her qualifying competitions, travel and costumes. We wish you well Zenith - let us know how you get on.
Rose on Baritone at The Barbican
Last year The Trust supported Rose in the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. She's had an amazing time, taking part in several courses and performing all over the country.
We were delighted to hear that she's been invited to join the band for this year's courses, when she sent us these great pictures and wrote about what else is in store for this year. It sounds wonderful Rose (2nd from right), keep us posted!
We will be remembering the end of WWI with another concert at The Barbican on Remembrance Sunday.
I will also be working with tutors David Childs and Glyn Williams and our Musical Director Bramwell Tovey, the new conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra!
As a result of last year's courses I have decided to audition for music colleges (particularly the RNCM, RWCMD and Royal Birmingham Conservatoire) so that I might have the opportunity to work with my amazing tutors on a regular basis!
Thank you very much for supporting me.
Suzi's Designs
Suzanne is in her 2nd year of studying Costume and Performance Design at Arts University Bournemouth. Her course covers elements related to costume design, costume construction, scenography and costume supervision.
The Trust has recently supported her with, for example, the cost of fabrics.
Here she tells us about her most recent creation.
Before Christmas our project was to create a costume from a design by Sophie Fretwell based around characters from Gulliver's Travels. My character was the Rice Farmer from the island of Brobdignang.
Here are some images of the costume on a mannequin.
Many thanks for your support.
Backflip Ben
The Trust was blown away by the talent and determination of Ben Goodall, who recently applied for funding. Whilst training as an elite tumbler, Ben is studying for a degree in chiropractic at the Anglo European College in Bournemouth. His road to success has not been without injury and challenges, as this video demonstrates. However, it also showcases his amazing ability and with a silver medal at the British Junior Championships and a gold in Portugal recently, Ben was looking to do well at the GB World Age Tumbling Championships. He wasn't disappointed. He landed a new run and gained a personal best score of 67.1 to put himself in the top eight and qualify for the final. Congratulations Ben, keep us posted in 2018.
Congratulations Beth - British U18 Rollerski Champion...selected to represent GB at the European U18 Nordic Ski Championships...and nominated for Oxfordshire's Junior Sportsperson of the Year
We really appreciate hearing all Beth's news - it's fantastic! You can find out more about her nomination and forthcoming goals at
http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/15805184.OXFORDSHIRE_SPORTS_AWARDS__Spotlight_on_Elizabeth_Ireland/ although we now know that she has been selected to represent GB at the European U18 Nordic Ski Championships in Italy the weekend of March 3rd and 4th - go Beth!
Following her tremendous progress last year on snow, Beth has also been excelling on rollerskis, recently becoming the British U18 Champion. Click on this link and fast forward to 1:38:00 to hear a recent interview for Radio Oxford in which Beth speaks about rollerski.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p05j71xt
You can also see her here, featured on BBC South Today,
describing her cross-country skiing goals for the European Youth Championships next year and the European Youth Olympics in 2019.
Ben is looking forward to next season
Ben continues to train as an elite sprinter. The Trust loves to hear from those it has supported and Ben is one of the best at keeping us up to date.
Hi, just wanted to say thank you again for the money. It’s really appreciated. This is the hardest time of the year financially and your help makes a huge difference. My coach is really pleased with my progress already this year so hopefully good things to come. My first race is in February and I will be sure to let you know how it goes.
Rosanna Harris in HGO's production of The Enchanted Pig
Having graduated from the RNCM, Rosanna has performed in a number of operas and concerts around the country. Here's a trailer for The Enchanted Pig, in which Rosanna will play the roles of Mab and Adelaide. Running from November 10th to 19th at Jacksons Lane Theatre, Highgate.
You can find out more about Rosanna on her website www.rosannaharris.com
Phoebe's film 'Fish Bowl' is ready for screening
You can read more about Phoebe and her production company by clicking on our Archive tab.
She is hoping to have a local screening in Oxford in the not too distant future.
In the meantime you can watch the film here!
Special Thanks from Blewbury Pre-School Playgroup
The Trust was delighted to see this photograph in September's Blewbury Bulletin of children at Blewbury's Pre-School Playgroup getting to grips with their new play equipment. It was accompanied by these very kind words.
We would like to thank the Tony Loy Trust for their very generous gift towards the creation of a new outdoor play area at Pre-School. This includes a large safety surface and new physical play equipment which will encourage children to enjoy climbing, balancing, jumping and running to develop their large motor skills and improve their confidence with their new found skills and abilities. Thank you so much Sheila, Francesca, Maria and Steve.
And a final thank you from the children themselves.
Planning of the new outdoor play area went on behind the scenes for some time. With help from Tony's colleagues in the play industry The Trust were able to offer some options to the Pre-School who finally chose the boat-themed Minizone Slider. Here's Sutcliffe Play hard at work over the summer, installing the equipment ready for the start of term.
Tour of Germany for Blewbury Youth Brass
For some years Blewbury Brass Band has been actively developing the next generation of young players. In 2014 The Trust was able to support the purchase of several new instruments to establish Brass Clubs at both Blewbury and Hagbourne Primary Schools. Class 4 at Blewbury now enjoy group cornet lessons on a weekly basis.
The Band also continued to develop its Beginner and Learner Bands and in August 2016 began a Youth Band which has attracted local players from across the county as well as some from farther afield! After just a year, members of Blewbury Youth Band have recently enjoyed a very successful tour of Germany.
Organised by Rayburn Tours, 32 youngsters, all under the age of 16, were joined by 8 adults for the trip to Boppard in the beautiful Rhein Gorge, where they performed three concerts.
On their return the band also gave a concert for local supporters at Didcot Civic Hall.
You can read more about the tour at https://blewburybrassband.org/2017/08/28/blewbury-youth-brass-grand-tour/
Jamie was selected as Principal Cornet player for the tour and asked The Trust to contribute towards the funds he needed to raise, in order to take part. Here he is in the centre of the front row.
The Trust loves to hear from those whom it has supported and receiving this email from Jamie was no exception.
Dear Sheila and the Tony Loy Trust
Thank you for your contribution to help me get the funding to go on the Germany tour. I had an amazing time and it was an unforgettable experience.
My favourite concert was the second one, in Bad Münster because the acoustics were great.
We also went to lots of places around the area and my favourite place was Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum.
The Blewbury Youth Brass Band is continuing to play together. We are preparing to enter a contest in October.
Thank you.
Best wishes from Jamie
Piano for Didcot Girls' School
Another major commitment for the Trust this year has been the provision of a new piano for one of the practice rooms at Didcot Girls' School. Therefore, it was lovely to receive this letter from a Year 7 pupil.
Personal Best for Ben
Following a rigorous fortnight of training in Tenerife, Ben can only be delighted with a personal best of 47.23 seconds in the 400m at Bedford recently...and then a gold medal in the 4 x 400m Relay with team mates from Bath University. In his own words, "Can't complain with that".
Victory for Zak
Zak’s absolutely loving the start of the new season on his new, more powerful, 600cc bike. Contesting podium finishes from the outset, Zak won his final race at Snetterton at the beginning of May.
Congratulations Zak, we’re sure you’ll have more great rides this season and we’re loving the Tony Loy Trust logo riding pillion with you!
Beth's Winter Season
As the Winter Season comes to an end, Beth very kindly wrote to tell us what she's been up to...lots it would seem! Her main winter training camp was in Norway with the British Nordic Development Squad. The week focussed on technique, endurance, and finally sprinting or racing. Here she is in Nordseter with fellow Squad members (she's on the right!).
Then Beth was delighted to be one of the few chosen from the Squad for the Austrian Championships in Ramsau. She relished the experience of 'serious' racing for the first time. Skiing with members from the GB Elite Squad inspired Beth even more. She is working hard towards her goal of the European Youth Olympics in two years time. This is her, no. 70, about to start her race.
Beth's last trip of the season was to Sweden in April where she was filmed being interviewed before her 6.2km race. She was really pleased with her finishing place...all looking good for race and squad selection in the future. All the best Beth, keep in touch!
2017
The Trust Abroad...
Update from Malawi:
A lot of hoeing, ploughing, flattening and raking had to take place before the football pitch could be marked out.
Tony would have loved the villages coming together to play against each other but would probably have had something to say about their choice of English Premiership team - other blue and white flags are available!
Local girl Lucy works for The Mlambe Project, a charity based in the rural village of Chikolongo, Malawi. The charity has been working to develop the primary school and support the community through the provision of sustainable livelihoods and a high quality education. The work has primarily focused on construction and the implementation of educational programmes. Lessons were always outside until new 'earth bag' buildings were completed.
However, to further support the community, The Mlambe Project also constructed a football pitch by the school and the Trust is keenly offering support with football kit and equipment.
Read more about The Mlambe Project at www.themlambeproject.org
Football boots have arrived and the Trust has received this 'Thank You'. Looks like the boots and the pitch are being put to good use!
The Trust is able to sponsor elite swimmer, Harry
a 3rd Year student at Plymouth University studying Photography. He is an elite breaststroke swimmer, competing at National and International level. Harry has qualified for the British Championships taking place in Sheffield this April, where his aim is to qualify for the World Championships. In addition to his studies, a training schedule of up to 15 hours a week in the pool and the gym leaves Harry little time if any to raise funds. The Trust is delighted to be able to offer Harry support with the cost of competing at this level.
You can read more about Harry at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships-bursaries-and-funding/funding/sports/harry-james-swimmer
How did he get on? Harry put in a creditable performance but unfortunately it wasn't enough to make the World Championships. We look forward to more results from Harry.
Grace...
is a 2nd Year student at Plymouth University studying Geography. Attending gymnastics classes since the age of 3, Grace turned to trampolining as a teenager and has never looked back. Selected for her university squad, Grace finished higher at the recent BUCS Trampolining Championships than last year (a fabulous 5th out of 148)...and having moved up a category too! She then rounded off the weekend with a 7th place finish with her partner in the synchronised event. The Trust is delighted to have been able to support Grace with the purchase of new leotards, including this one, compulsory for inter-university competition. Go Grace!
A Great Season for Ben
Last year the Trust helped Ben with, amongst other things, the purchase of new running spikes. So we were delighted to hear from him and in particular read about his performance at last summer's English Schools' Championships.
With your help I had a very successful season managing to win English Schools' 400 metres and receiving my first international vest.
Ben ran inside the National Standard by almost a whole second!
The Trust has committed to supporting Ben again this year, as he embarks on his study of Sports Performance at Bath University and begins a rigorous new training regime, with a new coach too.
It seems to be working well! In his GB vest Ben has made a fantastic start to 2017. Here he is winning Heat 3 at the Scottish Senior Championships in Glasgow, automatically qualifying for the final. He is now set for the British Trials in February. We look forward to hearing more from Ben and following his progress throughout the year.
2016
Georgie completes the Amsterdam Marathon in aid of the Trust!
Wearing bib #2770, Georgie set off on Sunday 16th October to run the 26.2 mile Amsterdam Marathon - her first ever marathon! See her here, running past the iconic Rijksmuseum.
Averaging 10 minute miles, Georgie reached the half way marker in an impressive 2:11:35. Unsurprisingly, running that distance, Georgie's body fought against her during the second half of the race. But undeterred she kept going to finish in 5:23:32. Of the 16500 runners who took part that placed her 11510 - fantastic for a first marathon! Well done Georgie and thank you for the money you have raised for the Trust.
If you missed sponsoring Georgie and would like to make a donation, please click here.
Jack is happy to oblige with a photo for
Alistair Brownlee!
A fabulous photo opportunity at the World Championships in Cozumel, Mexico last year. Jack finished a superb 4th in the 16 - 19 Aquathlon... whilst Alistair managed a 3rd place finish in the Elite Triathlon after memorably helping his brother Jonathan to cross the line ahead of him.
The Trust sponsors students from Didcot Sixth Form to make a video promoting the refurbishment of Blewbury Village Hall.
The film was produced by Media Studies students. It involved interviews with a number of Blewbury residents and had its premiere in the village on Sunday 2nd October. It is being used to support the campaign to raise £500,000 to refurbish the hall, which is a core facility in the village and supports young people's participation in sports and arts. Have a look at their production...the video, lasting approximately 5 minutes, is above. Should you want to find out more or to support Blewbury Village Hall's refurbishment go to http://blewbury.co.uk/venues/village-hall-refurbishment/
CONGRATULATIONS ZAK!
50 points clear going into the final day of racing at Cadwell Park, Zak is crowned Aprilia RRV450GP Champion of 2016.
See Zak at the start of the penultimate race of the season (34 races in total), already crowned champion yet ready to race in the most appalling of weathers.
His bike and leathers have looked great throughout the year, sporting The Tony Loy Trust logo. Good luck next season Zak as you follow your dream and move up to the 600 class.
Phoebe...
Harry...
is part of a young production company, Requiem Pictures, formed in 2016. The support of The Tony Loy Trust has enabled the making of their latest short film 'Fish Bowl', on which Phoebe worked as Associate Director. She can’t wait to release the final product this year, and plans to pursue a career in film and television after completing her English degree at Exeter University. She hopes to go on to write and direct something of her own in the future. Watch this space!
attends The Golf College in Lindfield, West Sussex. The Trust have enabled him to be match ready in his College kit. Good luck Harry!
Jordi...
has been BMX racing for 5 years - he's only 11 now! Four times qualifier for the World Championships, Jordi has represented his country around the world in the GB Squad. The Trust is delighted to have recently offered Jordi funding to help develop his talent in Downhill Mountain Biking too.
2015
2014
Rosanna
attended the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. The Trust supported her academic fees and was delighted when she was chosen to play Titania in a RNCM production of Benjamin Britten's 'A Midsummer's Night Dream'.
Georgie
is a student at the University of Winchester, further developing her talent in acting and drama. The Tony Loy Trust is delighted to be helping her kick-start a theatre company which Georgie aims to take into local schools.
2013
Indie rock band
Poledo
have produced their first EP, Egg Catpil Ccun Butfli, with help from The Tony Loy Trust. Money has also been used to produce T-shirts for the band's members, Sami, Jonny and Evan.
Eva
is a writer. The Trust provided financial support for 'The Hemline Index', performed at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and 'Boxed In', another work for Portmanteau. The Trust continues to support Eva's writing projects.
