Judo siblings’ ambitions helped by Bernicia grant

Two rising judo stars from Blyth, Northumberland, are set to take their sporting ambitions to new heights with the support of The Bernicia Foundation. 

Siblings Taylor and Joshua Chrisp, aged 15 and 18, respectively, are ranked first and third in Great Britain for their age categories and have already claimed multiple medals at national championships, with Taylor winning the British Championships on three consecutive occasions.

The siblings' achievements have earned them places on the England Judo Talent Development Programme, but the costs of competing internationally, intensive training camps and specialist kit requirements have presented significant challenges.

The Bernicia Foundation, a charitable trust set by North East housing association Bernicia, awarded the duo £1,000 Inspiration Grants each, easing financial pressures on their family, who had previously funded the siblings’ judo careers without external support.

Claire Chrisp, Taylor and Joshua’s mum, said: “We’re so proud of what Taylor and Joshua have achieved through their hard work. 

“The costs of supporting them at this level are significant, so the grants from The Bernicia Foundation are a huge relief. 

“It’s wonderful to see their efforts recognised and supported in this way.”

The grants will help fund travel, training and equipment as Taylor and Joshua, now members of the Great Britain under-21 squad, continue to pursue their sporting dreams.

Taylor added: “Judo is such an important part of my life, and I’ve learned so much from it, like how to stay focused and keep trying my best, even when things are tough.

“Winning gold at the British Championships has been amazing, and with The Bernicia Foundation’s support, I can keep training and competing at the highest level. 

“I’m so excited for the future and where judo will take me.”

Joshua added: “Judo has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it’s helped shape who I am today. 

“Competing nationally and internationally is challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. 

“The grant from The Bernicia Foundation has made it possible for me to continue chasing my dreams without worrying as much about the financial side. 

“I’m determined to make my family and our supporters proud.”

The Bernicia Foundation offers two funding streams: the Inclusion Fund for voluntary/community groups, registered charities and social enterprises, which awards up to £10,000; and the Inspiration Fund, which awards up to £1,000 for young people aged 24 years and under who are actively working towards personal goals.

Jenny Allinson, director of corporate governance at The Bernicia Foundation, added: “I am delighted that we have been able to support the Chrisp family in achieving their dream of both Taylor and Joshua competing for Team GB.

“Supporting a child competing at a national level is a huge undertaking, and for the Chrisp family to be doing that for two children simultaneously shows the value they place on their development. 

“I am excited to see how Taylor and Joshua’s judo careers progress here in the UK and internationally.”

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