Walsall Boy, 13, chosen as ambassador for Young Epilepsy at CarFest presented by bp pulse

CarFest presented by bp pulse was created by Chris Evans in 2012 with a simple yet profound purpose - to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Thirteen years on, this mission remains at the heart of everything CarFest does.

Visitors come to this family-fundraising festival to hear incredible music, make memories with loved ones, and be part of something bigger. 100% of profits from every ticket sold goes towards seven incredible charities supporting children, teens, and families across the UK.

This year CarFest will be raising funds for BBC Children in Need which receives 50% of the total funds raised. Other national charity partners, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust and Young Epilepsy, who will each receive 7% of the funds raised. Local Hampshire based charity Naomi’s House & Jacksplace will receive 2%. The remaining 13% will be donated to additional causes, including those local to the CarFest event site. Every ticket purchased contributes directly to supporting these incredible causes.

This year’s Do More Good Week shines a spotlight on these charities by sharing the stories of several young ambassadors - extraordinary children whose lives have been changed by CarFest’s support. Since 2012, CarFest has raised over £25 million for its charitable partners, and in 2024 alone, an impressive £1.26 million was donated. This August Bank Holiday (22nd-24th), CarFest returns to Laverstoke Park Farm, Hampshire, featuring six festivals rolled into one: FoodFest, KidsFest, RetroFest, SpaFest, StarFest, and Cars at CarFest.

Charlie, 13, from Walsall in the West Midlands, is this year’s ambassador for Young Epilepsy. Diagnosed with epilepsy at birth, he’s sharing his story to raise awareness of the condition. Charlie has been in and out of Birmingham Children's Hospital his whole life, particularly when his seizures are more frequent. 

He often has seizures while he’s sleeping, so his family have to keep a close eye on him overnight. Despite facing these challenges, however, Charlie has always maintained a positive outlook on life. 

Young Epilepsy has made a huge impact on his life, offering a safe space for him to meet others with epilepsy and talk about his experiences at their Virtual Youth Club. Charlie loves attending the youth clubs, and thanks to Young Epilepsy, has now found a community of children who understand his journey.

Charlie and his family also credit his Young Epilepsy Youth Support Worker, Stephen, for helping him to feel supported and understood. He shared: “Thank you for making me feel that I am not the only one with epilepsy.”

This summer, 10% of ticket sales and all festival profits will go directly to these charities, ensuring that more children like Charlie can find joy, confidence, and adventure beyond their diagnosis.

This year, global pop sensation Rita Ora will headline the Main Stage on Saturday, August 23. That’s not all, and alongside Rita, fans can enjoy a whole host of acts, including the rock-tastic Travis, folk-rock musician Tom Walker, 80s pop sensations Madness as well as the smooth blues of Seasick Steve to name a few.