Outdoor Activity Venture Backs Dales Children’s Charity

An outdoor activity firm is pledging support to families by becoming patrons of Yorkshire Dales children’s charity, The Principle Trust.

Craig and Sam Perkins, who own SAAIG Outdoors, announced their patronage of the charity, which provides respite breaks to children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse.

Based on the outskirts of Ingleton, the specialist adventurous activities company offers outdoor pursuits including rock climbing, abseiling, guided walks, winter mountaineering, challenge events, fell and trail running. The couple also own and operate Dales Lodge, a self-catering holiday lodge for large groups, just outside Ingleton.

Mr. Perkins, who is a Winter Mountain Leader, Running & Climbing Coach, was inspired to support the charity after hearing first-hand of the benefits for families in taking a short respite break away from their normal environment and day-to-day challenges.

In 2023 the couple helped to raise over £2000 for the Skipton-based charity by leading a walk across North Craven. Dubbed ‘Footsteps For Families’, the long-distance challenge saw charity supporters walk a total of 400,000 steps – one for every child in Yorkshire experiencing poverty. Craig, 53, is currently planning the route for a 100-kilometer fundraising walk scheduled for 2025, to further support the charity’s work with disadvantaged families.

The Principle Trust Children’s Charity was established in 2011 by Skipton businessman Mike Davies, MBE. Since then, the Trust has raised over £1.7m, purchased six holiday homes and provided respite breaks for 5000 children across the Yorkshire region.

Making the announcement Craig said,

‘As a family-run business committed to mental and physical wellbeing, we are delighted to support the work of The Principle Trust, helping some of our region’s most disadvantaged families to escape their daily troubles and create long-lasting happy memories.’

Kerry Magson, the charity’s Community Engagement Manager, added,

‘We are delighted to welcome SAAIG Outdoors as a patron. As a family business dedicated to encouraging well-being, their values align closely with ours. Thanks to local businesses like SAAIG Outdoors, we can continue supporting disadvantaged families across Yorkshire.’