our history
Sir William Leech was a renowned North East housebuilder and philanthropist whose remarkable vision and dedication to helping others continue to inspire and guide the work of The William Leech Charitable Trust. A self-made man, Sir William's journey from humble beginnings to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and resilience.
early life and career
Born into modest circumstances, Sir William Leech worked tirelessly to overcome the challenges of his early years. His entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen led him to establish a successful construction company, which over time, grew into a thriving enterprise.
Under Sir William's leadership, the company expanded its operations, contributing to significant infrastructure and housing developments.
philanthropic endeavours
Having experienced the struggles of poverty firsthand, Sir William was acutely aware of the need to support those facing adversity.
As his business prospered, he turned his attention to philanthropy, dedicating a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes.
the william leech charity
To ensure his vision would endure beyond his own lifetime, Sir William established The William Leech Charitable Trust in 1972.
The Trust has since become a pillar of support for various charitable initiatives across the North East, focusing on key areas such as education, health and wellbeing, poverty alleviation, and community development.
legacy
Sir William Leech's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others and creating a more equitable society continues to guide the work of The William Leech Charitable Trust.
His legacy serves as a shining example of how one individual's generosity and determination can create lasting, positive change in the world.
​
William Leech passed away in 1990 at the age of 90. In recognition of his philanthropic efforts, he was posthumously knighted in the New Year's Honours List.
the willam leech charitable trust
The William Leech Charity Fund was born from Sir William Leech's desire to create a lasting legacy that would positively impact the people of North East England. This visionary entrepreneur was driven by his deep-rooted Christian beliefs to establish a fund that would not only inspire community-minded individuals but also support projects that promote education, health, community development, and arts & culture.
​
The Fund's Everlasting Commitment
The William Leech Charity Fund is committed to preserving its capital value, ensuring that it can continue to serve the ever-evolving needs of the communities in Northumberland and Tyne & Wear. The Fund's income is distributed to a diverse range of projects and organizations, all sharing the common goal of uplifting the community and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
A Dynamic Approach
The Trustees of the William Leech Charity Fund recognise the importance of flexibility and adaptability in addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. They work diligently to ensure that the guidelines for grant and loan applications are relevant and responsive to a modern world.
The Trustees' unwavering dedication to the people of the North East is evident in their ongoing efforts to refine and improve the application process.
A Testament to Sir William Leech's Legacy
The William Leech Charity Fund stands as a testament to the vision and generosity of Sir William Leech. His philanthropic spirit continues to shape and influence the lives of countless people in the North East of England. Through the support of impactful projects and the tireless work of community-driven individuals, the Fund perpetuates Sir William's dream of a thriving, interconnected community.