‘Secret millionaire’ gives early Christmas present 

Philanthropist and businessman Terry George, who appeared on The Secret Millionaire has pledged an early Christmas present of £20,000 to Leeds Metropolitan University to help fund their widening participation programmes.

The gift will support the University’s ‘Aspire 2 Achieve’ programme for two years, an important initiative which encourages white working class boys from across Leeds to consider studying at university through aspiration-raising events and study support activities.

Terry never dreamt he would have the opportunity to give away thousands on the Secret Millionaire and has come a long way since working in a pickle factory in Bramley after leaving school. He said: “Growing up in a tough council estate in Leeds and leaving school without any qualifications meant that I never had the opportunity to go to university. The Aspire 2 Achieve programme is something I feel passionately about because it raises the aspiration of boys from similar backgrounds to mine and gives them the chance to make the right choices about their future. Helping people to realise their full potential is particularly important in today’s economic climate so I’m really looking forward to working with Leeds Met on this project.”

Vicky Hayhurst, Head of Development and Alumni, said: “We are thrilled with the gift we have received from Terry. This really will change people’s lives and make an impact in the communities in which we are trying to raise aspiration and achievement. We are very grateful and this is the perfect Christmas present!”

Leeds Metropolitan University’s Alumni and Development team undertake important fundraising work to support specific projects and initiatives at the University throughout the year.