A Moment to Celebrate — and Look Forward

Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian)

The Board of Trustees today announces that His Honour Judge Mark Halliwell has issued a judgment in response to Anthony McGann’s application for permission to appeal an earlier decision of the High Court, in which the winding-up petition he presented against the Charity was dismissed.

Judge Halliwell ruled:

“Permission to appeal is refused on the basis that an appeal would have no real prospect of success and there is no other reason, compelling or otherwise, as to why such an appeal should be heard.”

The issue of costs was also addressed. The Charity, through its barrister, Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, made submissions as to why Mr McGann should be ordered to pay the Charity’s legal costs.

Judge Halliwell ruled:

“Mr McGann must pay the Company’s costs summarily assessed on the indemnity basis in the sum of £7,852 plus VAT if the Company is unregistered for VAT. He must also pay the Charity Commission’s costs summarily assessed on the indemnity basis in the sum of £1,586.25. He must make a payment to the Foundation in the sum of £20,325. Subject to any immediate submissions to the contrary, payment must be made within 14 days.”

The Trustees wish to thank all those who have supported the Charity since their appointment in March 2025. The Charity has now successfully defended itself in the High Court, and the Trustees are turning their attention to the future, focused on protecting and advancing the interests of those for whom the Charity exists.

The Charity can also provide an update on a separate claim brought by Shaun Smith Enterprises Ltd in the County Court at Liverpool. The Company issued a claim alleging that the Charity had agreed to a consultancy arrangement, which purportedly resulted in a debt of £25,500.

Following directions from the County Court, the Charity submitted a witness statement setting out its position in relation to the alleged debt. Shortly thereafter, Shaun Smith Enterprises Ltd contacted the Charity, and the claim was subsequently discontinued.

As a result, the Charity has no outstanding claims to defend and has successfully concluded its High Court proceedings.

Maureen Price, Vice Chair of the Charity, said:

“This is a real achievement for a Charity which, in March 2025, had just £42 in a frozen bank account. Without the steadfast support of those who stood by us, the Charity may no longer exist. We wish to place particular emphasis on, and express our sincere thanks to, Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, who represented the Charity with exceptional skill, commitment, and courage.”

Lord Christopher Rennard MBE, Chair of the Charity, added:

“This judgment reflects the determination and hard work of everyone involved in securing the Charity’s future. Our focus now turns to growth and renewal. We are excited about what lies ahead and confident in what we can achieve.”