Fake Charity Collectors Target Bexley Residents
Scam thieves are knocking on doors in Bexley, pretending to collect donations for the Tony Hudgell Foundation. But the charity warns these imposters are out to steal your cash.
The True Story Behind the Tony Hudgell Foundation
Tony Hudgell, now nine, endured horrific abuse as a baby. At just 41 days old, his birth parents inflicted life-threatening injuries, leading to the amputation of both his legs at the knees. Tony’s adoptive parents, Paula and Mark from West Malling, set up the foundation over three years ago to help abused children like him.
“This has not been authorised by us or received any funds,” Paula Hudgell revealed on social media. She stressed the charity never does door-to-door collections and urged donations only through official channels on their website.
Thieves Spotted Wearing Orange Tabards
Fraudulent collectors have been spotted sporting bright orange tabards as they go door-to-door in Bexley. Paula called them “the lowest of the low” and urged anyone who encountered them to come forward. The family has reported the scam to police and charity regulators.
Tony Hudgell: Charity Hero & Campaigner
Despite his ordeal, Tony has raised over £1 million for charity and received the British Empire Medal last year for efforts to prevent child abuse — the youngest ever honoured this way.
The Hudgell family also fought for tougher sentences for abusers, leading to “Tony’s Law” in 2022. It increased the maximum jail term to life for those causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable adult at home.
Beware & Report Suspicious Charity Collectors
The public is urged to stay alert and report any dodgy charity collectors to the authorities. Protect your cash and support charity the right way — through verified and official means only.
