20For20:Challenge for All – Mother and son duo sign up

Philippa Grant, who is in her eighties, from Hertfordshire, and her son Craig Grant (43), have talked about their desire to help raise funds for Hostage International so are taking on the 20for20: Challenge for All.

The pair attended our event at the Old Bailey in March this year, and were so moved by all the speakers that they felt they wanted to do something to help.

Philippa said: “The hostage situations are so awful. I remember Sir Terry and John McCarthy being taken and followed their journeys and afterwards when they were released.

“But people are still being taken hostage at the moment – all over the world. We know of people who are currently affected by hostage situations, so the charity has really struck a chord with us.”

Some of her son Craig’s earliest memories were of Terry’s release and he has read Taken on Trust twice, finding Terry’s writing a huge inspiration. He ended up sending a message to Terry and meeting him in March.

“We both left saying that we wanted to do something,” said Craig.

Philippa added: “We want to help highlight your smaller charity.

“Cancer is the most awful thing, I lost my husband and son to it, but people are so much more willing, and quicker, to give to cancer charities, but hostages seem to get lost as people don’t know a lot about it.

“It’s close to our hearts now, and we hope that by taking part we can help raise money for Hostage International.”

Craig is taking on the 20km in ten days attempting to embark on 2km a day with 20kg on his back, while his mum will be hoping to go out for a short walk each day for the ten days.

Lara Symons, CEO, Hostage International, said: “It is so heartwarming to hear the stories behind people taking on this challenge.

“Craig and Philippa have it spot on – taking it on in a way that suits them, which is safe, hopefully fun, while raising awareness and funds.

“Thank you to them and to everyone who is taking part and sponsoring people involved.”

The 20for20: Challenge for All is encouraging people to walk, run, swim, spin, cycle – clock up up to 20km over ten days to help raise much needed funds for Hostage International, and its essential work in supporting those affected by kidnaps and arbitrary detention.

This Challenge is now closed. Thank you to everyone for their support.

September 2024

Feature image of Craig and Philippa with Sir Terry at the Old Bailey ©StephanieBelton