Stand-by-me welcomes our first Patron – Billy Byrne
We’re proud to introduce Billy Byrne, star of BBC TV’s DIY SOS to our team
As fans of the popular BBC series will know, Billy and the team regularly work on incredible projects to improve the lives of others. He has supported charities all over the country and even worked with royalty. However, many will be unaware that, through personal experience, Billy understands the issues that face families when a close family member has died. Earlier this week, Billy came to meet the Trustees and Young Ambassadors and was warmly welcomed by everyone. Our Lead Ambassador, Owen, was able to spend time with Billy to speak about his experiences as a young person bereaved in childhood.
The Ambassadors clearly felt at ease in Billy’s company and enjoyed having the opportunity to spend time with him. After watching the YA videos Billy commented to Young Ambassador Harvey that he had just seen him on TV.
Harvey was quick to reply: “I’ve seen you on telly too!”
“Billy is an enthusiastic supporter of local charities and we are delighted he has chosen to be our Patron.”
Ian Cotterill, Stand-by-me Chair of Trustees
Throughout the evening Billy chatted to the Young Ambassadors, who were making and decorating paper elephants for the forthcoming Hitchin Christmas Tree Festival. They also showed him the videos they’d made recently, in which they talk about their personal journeys and how they were supported by Stand-by-me.