Sunday 30th August 2026 on BBC Radio Leeds, Sheffield and York:

Hi, I'm Lee, and this October I'll be taking on one of the biggest challenges I've ever faced—climbing The O2 to raise money for two amazing charities that are both incredibly close to my heart: Furever Loved Small Animal Rescue and Festival Angels.

There's just one problem... I'm absolutely terrified of heights!

Taking on this climb is well outside my comfort zone, but knowing that I'm doing it to support two incredible causes gives me the motivation to face that fear.

Furever Loved. Small Animal Rescue Registered Charity 1179937 works tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome small animals that have been abandoned, neglected, or need a second chance. Their dedication gives so many vulnerable animals the love and care they deserve.

Festival Angels provides vital support to people at festivals, offering a safe, friendly, and compassionate presence for anyone who needs help. Whether it's emotional support, practical assistance, or simply someone to talk to, they make a real difference to thousands of people every year.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will be shared between these two fantastic charities, helping them continue the life-changing work they do. If you can't donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean the world to me and help spread the word.

You can donate via GoFundMe.

Lee says, "I'm hoping that by conquering my fear of heights, I can make a real difference for both people and animals who need support."

"Thank you so much for your kindness, encouragement, and generosity. Every donation and every share brings me one step closer to reaching my goal—and one step closer to the top of The O2!"

​Thank you,
Lee

Festival Angels are the winners of SME New UK Enterprise Awards 'Faith Based Festival Support Charity of the Year 2026'.

​Media Release:

SME News Magazine announces the winners of this year’s UK Enterprise Awards.

Throughout this year’s programme, the UK Enterprise Awards continues to highlight and applaud businesses and individuals purely based on their recent performance. The 2026 instalment, as the ninth edition of this programme, is a beacon of light for those looking for stellar services, anyone searching for inspiration along their own path, or anyone wanting to understand the developments within the UK’s corporate landscape.

Reaching from corner to corner of business in the UK, the awardees within this year’s edition come from all kinds of industries. From health, beauty, and wellness to construction, law to food and drink, software and technology to home improvement, and so much more, SME News is proud to present these pioneering solutions and incredible success stories.

Winner of the 'Faith Based Festival Support Charity of the Year 2026' is Festival Angels who work at festivals across the UK each year. 

Paul Blakey MBE, lead of Festival Angels, comments, "This award is for each and every Festival Angel who spend summer months offering support and help to festival-goers and organisers. Our teams go above and beyond from local grassroots events to some of the biggest festivals in the country. Winning the SME News UK Enterprise Award is another way of showcasing the impact we are making."

​SME News prides itself on the validity of its awards and winners. The awards are given solely on merit and are awarded to commend those most deserving for their ingenuity and hard work, distinguishing them from their competitors and proving them worthy of recognition.

To learn more about our award winners and to gain insight into the working practices of the “best of the best,” please visit the SME News website where you can access the winners supplement.

Last year Leeds Festival Left Luggage and the Prayer Cafe supported 10 charities, several food banks / church / community groups with biscuits and helped start a football team!
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Festival Angels were part of 'Prayers of Hope' on Premier Christian Radio.

Listen to the full prayer below.

"As Festival Angels we are seeking to shine God's light at some of the many festivals and events taking place over the summer. As people gather for music, community and fun we pray for those, like Festival Angels, who are seeking to offer welfare and support. We pray for those at Download Festival, with headliners such as Linkin Park and Guns and Roses, who received Jesus Loves Festivals temporary tattoos and especially for the 20 or so people who wanted to explore Jesus further and received a copy of the Metal Bible.  We pray for those involved and working within festival life."