Charity bonanza for Crohn’s and colitis

Charlotte Messenger initially hoped to raise £10,000 within a year when she began her campaign last November, but the project smashed its target in no time thanks to generous donations from local people and businesses in North Kirklees and beyond.

“There isn’t a lot of awareness about Crohn’s disease and I wanted to inspire people,” she said.

“Myself and the team have been overwhelmed with the support from the local community and businesses.

“We wouldn’t have been able to raise awareness or raise funds without them.”

When Charlotte, who has Crohn’s disease, was studying for her degree she was told she would be unable to go on holiday because of the condition.

But she has since completed her studies, travelled to Australia and got a job as a social worker, while also finding time to raise money for her cause.

Several of her team also suffer from Crohn’s or colitis, but the 25-year-old was keen to show that people were capable of achieving great things despite their illnesses.

Supporters from Dewsbury and Mirfield took part in the Three Peaks Challenge, which pits walkers against Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

Other events included a 15,000ft sky dive and a cycling challenge in Mallorca.

The fundraising concluded with a ball at the John Smith’s Stadium in Huddersfield, which raised £2,500.

The charity Crohn’s and Colitis UK also gave Charlotte its Young People Award for her fundraising at its annual awards.

She vowed to continue her work and said the money raised by her events would go towards research to eventually find a cure.

Anyone who wants to help should call 07792 270952.