The Charlie Froud Foundation' has been set up in memory of Charlie, a 14 year old boy who died in October 2008 when the light aircraft he was travelling in, crashed in the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. He was on his way to stay for the half term holiday, in the holiday home of his good friend Ayman and his parents, all of whom were with Charlie on the plane and died with him.

The Foundation has been set up to financially benefit the volunteer rescue services whose members risked their lives to search tirelessly for the plane in hazardous weather conditions and over rugged terrain. These were The Glen of Imaal Rescue Services, The Mountain of Mourne Rescue Services and the Dublin and Wicklow Mountain Rescue Services. The Coastguard and the Guarda also played a huge part in what was a complicated operation which ultimately had the saddest of outcomes.

Also supported by the Charlie Froud Foundation will be Marlwood School in Alveston, near Bristol, where Charlie and Ayman were well-known, popular pupils. The school's Parents' Association are currently fundraising for a school minibus which the Trust is aiming to contribute to. Because Charlie was a popular, vibrant, energetic person who loved life and made the most of every moment, supporting these amazing organisations is keeping his memory alive in a positive way for his family and close friends.

Children's Hospice South West is the third worthy cause we support.  There is no worse agony for a parent than losing a child.  Charlie loved people of all ages and everyone loved him back.  Little ones particularly adored him for his unselfconsciousness and enthusiasm for their games.  The work that Children’s Hospice South West does, both for the children in their care and their families, is incredible.  It is a vibrant, positive community making precious, limited time as good as it can be.