IF you see a strangely dressed character walking up one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks next month, it is likely the executive director of a Craven storytelling arts charity.

Charles Tyrer will be walking the path up Whernside dressed as fairytale character as a fundraising pledge to raise at least £1,000 for Settle Stories.

Last year, Settle Stories moved its flagship annual event Yorkshire Festival of Story online to support people at a time when they needed connection more than ever. The charity faced closure due to lost revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships. But following a successful fundraising campaign, supporters raised over £15,000 to keep the charity’s outreach programmes going.

To keep the fundraising going, Mr Tyrer has pledged to walk up Whernside and has given those who donate to his fundraiser the chance to suggest what costume he will wear.

"I've given three options: Fairy Godmother, Prince Charming or the Frog Prince. I have an idea it will be the first one but I will my thermals on underneath if that's the case," he said.

"It will be going ahead at some time in December but as yet the date hasn't been set. It certainly won't be during the worst of the weather.

Settle Stories has brought free virtual storytelling to over 70,000 children across the UK. The events aim to inspire the next generation of writers, artists, leaders and thinkers and have included themes around Eid, World Environment Day, Diwali, Black History Month and World Book Day.

One teacher wrote, “Settle Stories is my children's window on the world. They don’t experience other faiths and cultures where we live. These events are helping to broaden their horizons.”

This year, Settle Stories has scrapped ticket sales for Yorkshire Festival of Story once again and needs to raise £15,000 in funds to cover expenses for the event. The festival is offering over 50 free online events, featuring award-winning artists and speakers from around the world.

Mr Tyter has reaslised over £800 so far and will keep the fundraising page open throughout December.

He added: “It’s a bit of fun, but it also spreads a message. We’re bringing great storytelling to Yorkshire and beyond and it’s only possible thanks to the support of local people.”

Donate to Charles Tyrer’s fundraiser on Facebook which can be found at:

https://www.facebook.com/donate/1262008130971156/4702625596455285/

More about Settle Stories and what it has achieved so far can be found at: https://www.settlestories.org.uk/