Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm is proud to shine a spotlight on The Hutt | HYROX Training Club, a Selby-based gym whose commitment to community and charitable giving has resulted in incredible fundraising efforts and meaningful support for disadvantaged children across the city.
How it started
Founder, Ed De Carvalho Smith tells us how having grown up in Leeds and spent time at Lineham Farm as a child, has always held Leeds Children’s Charity in high regard. Reflecting on the positive impact the Farm had during his own childhood, supporting LCC felt like a natural choice when setting up a new business rooted in community values.
“When I opened The Hutt, supporting local charities and hosting fundraising events was something I was keen to include from the start. Lineham Farm immediately came to mind.” – Ed De Carvalho Smith
The Hutt’s first fundraising event in support of LCC took place just weeks after the gym opened. Members were invited to take part in a Hyrox Physical Fitness Test (PFT) – a gruelling challenge designed to test endurance and athletic ability. Despite limited planning time, the response from members was overwhelming. Through their dedication, enthusiasm, and generosity, the event raised £640, setting the tone for what would become an even bigger ambition.
Inspiring more
Inspired by this early success, The Hutt team set their sights on our major Christmas fundraising challenge the Leeds to Lapland – A Virtual Christmas Fundraising Challenge. Drawing on previous experience with endurance events, the idea of a 24-hour Ergathon challenge was born. The goal: to collectively row, ski and cycle the equivalent distance of travelling to Lapland and back – 4.4 million metres – within 24 hours, while raising £2,000 for Leeds Children’s Charity.
As soon as the event was announced, members, coaches, families, friends, and the wider community rallied behind the cause. Donations began pouring in before the challenge even started, with local businesses and supporters keen to get involved.
On the day itself, the atmosphere was electric. A core group committed to keeping the ergs moving for the full 24 hours, while others dropped in throughout the day and night to play their part. The challenge tested everyone both physically and mentally, but the collective determination never wavered. In just under 24 hours, the team reached the full 4.4 million metres, smashing their fundraising target and raising an incredible £3,103 for LCC.
👉 Get inspired to fundraise for Leeds Children’s Charity
Why it matters
Reflecting on why Leeds Children’s Charity means so much, Ed highlighted the unique role Lineham Farm plays in children’s lives.
“The staff, the Farm itself, and what it offers are what make it such a special charity. Being able to take children out of extremely difficult everyday situations, even for a short time, can have a hugely positive impact on their mindset and future. The passion of the staff makes it impossible not to want to get involved.” ~ Ed De Carvalho Smith
👉 Find out more about Leeds Children’s Charity and Lineham Farm
Strengthening Community
The partnership has also strengthened The Hutt’s own sense of community. Bringing people together around a shared cause not only raised vital funds but also demonstrated the generosity, resilience, and spirit of its members.
“Rowing, biking and skiing for 24 hours isn’t easy, but our members gave their time and energy so willingly. Events like this show what’s possible when people come together for a cause they care about.” ~ Ed De Carvalho Smith
The Hutt’s story highlights the important role businesses can play in supporting local charities – not only through fundraising, but by using their platforms, networks and influence to raise awareness and make a real difference.
“Businesses don’t exist in a vacuum; they exist because communities exist. Supporting charities like Leeds Children’s Charity is a privilege and a way of reinvesting back into the community.” ~ Ed De Carvalho Smith
Final word
Leeds Children’s Charity would like to extend a huge thank you to The Hutt, its members, supporters, and everyone involved in these fantastic fundraising efforts. Their commitment and generosity will help ensure more children can experience life-changing residential breaks and activity days for children facing disadvantage, poverty or trauma across Leeds.
👉 Learn how your business can partner with Leeds Children’s Charity