A remarkable fundraiser who dribbled a football more than 2,000 miles from Morocco to the Midlands has represented the West Midlands at the prestigious Pride of Britain Awards.
Football coach James Lewis attended the national ceremony in London after being named the region’s Fundraiser of the Year.
His extraordinary fundraising achievements have helped raise more than £129,000 for St Giles Hospice, making him the charity’s biggest individual fundraiser.
An incredible journey for St Giles
James completed an 86-day challenge, travelling from Morocco to the Midlands while dribbling a football.
The journey was undertaken in memory of his father, who received care from St Giles Hospice when James was just 11 years old.
The challenge attracted considerable attention and support, helping James raise substantial funds for the hospice.
His fundraising page has now reached £75,680 for the challenge alone, while his lifetime fundraising total has exceeded £129,000.
The achievement earned him the West Midlands Fundraiser of the Year title in September and a place among 17 finalists competing for the national award.
Representing the region in London
James attended the Pride of Britain Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House in London, accompanied by St Giles Hospice events manager Sam Colclough.
Although the overall Fundraiser of the Year award went to 85-year-old Barry Walden from Hull, James’s selection among the national finalists was a significant recognition of his dedication.
Barry received the national honour in recognition of 65 years spent raising money for charities through his singing.
For James, the evening provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of fundraisers from across the country.
A proud moment for St Giles Hospice
St Giles Hospice Chief Executive Elinor Eustace welcomed James’s achievement and the recognition it brought to the charity.
His fundraising has made a substantial contribution to the hospice, which provides specialist care and support to people and families facing serious illness.
The challenge has also inspired young people, with James sharing his experiences in schools.
His determination, commitment and willingness to undertake such an extraordinary journey have made him an outstanding ambassador for the charity.
Pride of Britain television broadcast
The Pride of Britain Awards ceremony will be shown on ITV1 and ITVX on Thursday 22 October 2026 at 8pm.
For supporters of St Giles Hospice, it will be another opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of a fundraiser whose efforts have made such a difference.
James may not have taken home the overall national award, but his journey from Morocco to the Midlands has already secured something equally important: lasting support and recognition for a charity close to his heart.
