Tony Hudgell completes O2 Arena climb as Beckham sends supportive message
Double amputee Tony Hudgell raises funds for Evelina London and a Lapland trip for families affected by trauma; David Beckham offers a personal congratulations.
A ten-year-old double amputee fundraiser has completed his latest charitable challenge, climbing the O2 Arena in London on prosthetic legs in about 45 minutes. Tony Hudgell, who co-founded the Tony Hudgell Foundation, has raised more than £2 million for Evelina London Children's Hospital over the years, supporting vulnerable children and families affected by abuse. The young climber has previously met Prince William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and has become a visible figure in the UK charity circuit.
Tony was joined on the climb by Ed Balls and former Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini, along with his adoptive father, Mark Hudgell. The event was staged to raise funds for a Magical Memories Christmas trip to Lapland for children and families affected by trauma, and the foundation said the effort raised more than £21,000. The day reportedly featured perfect weather and was described by organizers as a memorable experience with plenty of laughter and support for Tony as he navigated the vertical challenge on his crutches and through the physical exertion of the climb.
Paula Hudgell shared a video of her son’s climb and revealed that football icon David Beckham had sent a personal message of congratulations: "Hi Tony what a moment, congratulations keep inspiring us all. Love David x." Paula tweeted that Tony was "absolutely overjoyed" by the message, underscoring the wider public admiration for his perseverance.
Tony’s life story has drawn national attention for years. He was born in 2014 and endured horrific abuse that led to the amputation of both legs as a baby. He underwent 23 operations and eight blood transfusions, and his birth parents, Anthony Smith and Jody Simpson, were jailed for ten years in 2018 for the abuse. They were released from prison earlier this month. Tony was adopted by Paula and Mark Hudgell in 2016, and the family has since become prominent advocates for child protection, campaigning for tougher penalties through Tony’s Law and dedicating themselves to Tony’s fundraising efforts.
The youngster has also been celebrated by members of the royal family. He has been linked with visits and meet-and-greets with the Prince and Princess of Wales and was hosted by Queen Camilla at Buckingham Palace last year after missing a garden party due to traffic. His work with the foundation has continued to expand beyond individual challenges; in 2020, he embarked on a 10-kilometer walk in 30 days inspired by Captain Sir Tom Moore, who raised more than £33 million. In 2021, the Tony Hudgell Foundation provided more than 700 Christmas presents to children in need, a program that continued into the following year. The foundation’s ongoing mission focuses on assisting families affected by abuse, providing support and opportunities for recovery and memorable experiences, such as trips to Lapland for those who have faced trauma.
The O2 climb adds to Tony’s long list of fundraising milestones. His efforts have become a symbol of resilience and generosity, echoing the broader mission of the Tony Hudgell Foundation to support vulnerable children and families while raising awareness of child abuse prevention and wellness. The latest climb also highlights the ongoing collaboration between Tony’s family, supporters, and high-profile advocates who have rallied around his cause, including appearances by prominent figures in sport and entertainment.