Pendle entrepreneur welcomes VIP guests to charity padel tournament supporting The King’s Trust

Pendle entrepreneur and Daisy founder and chairman Matthew Riley welcomed senior business leaders to the borough for a special charity padel tournament held at Pendle Padel Club.

As a fellow of The King’s Trust, Matthew organised the event in the build-up to the charity’s milestone 50th year, which will be celebrated in 2026.

All proceeds from the event will go towards programmes that help young people across the UK build confidence, skills, and sustainable futures. 

The tournament was generously supported by leading brands within the telecoms channel, along with clothing merchandiser Wild Thang, which was itself launched in 1996 thanks to a small loan from The King’s Trust. 

Following an afternoon of competitive games and networking, Andy Bell, founder of AJ Bell, and his nephew Ben Albrecht claimed victory in a closely contested final against Matthew and his padel partner Tony Black. 

Matthew Riley said: “It was fantastic to bring senior leaders together here in Pendle to support The King’s Trust as it approaches its 50th year.

"The atmosphere was brilliant, the competition fierce, and the generosity overwhelming. Events like this play a crucial role in raising both awareness and funds for the vital work the Trust does with young people nationwide.”

Tournament champion Andy Bell added: “It was a brilliant event and a great opportunity to support an important cause. The King’s Trust does incredible work helping young people change their lives, and it’s inspiring to see the business community get behind it. Winning was a bonus - it was just great to be part of the day.” 

Charlie McDermott, of Pendle Padel Club, said: “We were proud to host Matthew and so many influential leaders at Pendle Padel Club. It’s fantastic to see Pendle on the map for events like this, especially when they support something as meaningful as The King’s Trust.”

Karen Walker of The King’s Trust said: “We’re hugely grateful to Matthew Riley for organising this event and to all the sponsors and participants who put their weight behind the cause.

"I’d also like to thank Pendle Padel Club for providing such a welcoming venue. Partnerships like this really do help us continue delivering life-changing support for young people, and the funds raised will directly contribute towards those efforts.”