On Friday 10th July we had the great privilege of welcoming Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons and one of our valued patrons, to our Chorley headquarters and Tarleton distribution centre.
Sir Lindsay spent several hours with our wonderful team leaders, sponsors, and volunteers from Chorley, Preston, Southport, South Ribble, Bolton, Tarleton—and, of course, our precious Ukrainian team. He was accompanied by Paul Foster, MP for South Ribble and Peter Wilson, Deputy Leader of Chorley Council, and we are sincerely grateful to them all for taking the time to visit us.
For me personally, the day was especially meaningful. Sir Lindsay is also my local MP and has stood alongside our work since 1991, when he was a Chorley councillor, following my very first humanitarian visit to Ukraine—six years before he became the Member of Parliament for Chorley. Through all those years, his warm friendship, encouragement and support have never wavered – always looking to help the needy.
Sir Lindsay is widely respected for his integrity, his straightforward approach, and his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Chorley. He has also always been a steadfast friend of Ukraine, speaking with compassion for those who continue to endure the terrible suffering caused by Russia’s invasion.
As our volunteers shared stories, prepared aid, and spoke about the lives being saved through ambulances, 4×4 pickups, medical equipment and humanitarian relief, Sir Lindsay saw once again that this work is far more than the delivery of supplies. It is about bringing hope, preserving life, and reminding people in their darkest moments that they have not been forgotten.
On behalf of every volunteer, supporter and friend of International Aid Trust, thank you, Sir Lindsay, for your friendship, your kindness and your faithful support over so many years. Your visit was a tremendous encouragement to us all and a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, compassion, courage and faith continue to shine brightly.
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9
Together, we are proving that compassion is stronger than fear, hope is stronger than despair, and the love of Christ continues to reach those who need it most.
Forward together, until evil is overcome and peace is restored.
Rev. Bernard Cocker
Founder & CEO
International Aid Trust
