Ukrainian father from Glossop goes the extra mile for children in need

A Ukrainian father of two from Glossop who took part in the Bury BID 10K to raise money for children affected by the war in Ukraine has smashed his fundraising target.

Artem Davydov pulled on his trainers and joined his colleague Tamsin Stringfellow for the challenge, wearing running sunglasses supplied by their employer, UK eyewear company Specscart.

The pair had set themselves a £100 target for the Children’s Emergency Fund, run by global charity Save the Children, with Specscart pledging to match every pound donated.

Thanks to generous contributions from friends, family, colleagues and customers, they far exceeded their target, raising a total of £670.

Artem and Tamsin, a mother of two from Swinton, said they were delighted with the response to their fundraising challenge.

Artem, his wife and their two sons, now aged four and five, fled their home when their neighbourhood in Kyiv became the epicentre of the war following Russia’s invasion in February 2022.

He said: “I’m very pleased that we were able to raise such a significant amount.

“Our 10K run is for those little kids and their parents who are living through the war in Ukraine and who so desperately need our help.

“I am truly grateful to Specscart, and personally to its founder Sid, for supporting this great cause.”

Before moving to the UK, 36-year-old Artem spent four years working as an assistant and interpreter for the Indian ambassador in Ukraine, followed by five years with the International Committee of the Red Cross as a radio operator and management assistant.

He speaks five languages and joined the Specscart team in August 2025. He is now executive assistant to the company's founder, Sid Sethi.

Sid said: “Big congratulations to Artem and Tamsin for taking on this challenging run and charity drive – they’ve done themselves proud.

“It’s fantastic that they surpassed their fundraising target and we were more than happy to match, pound for pound, every donation made to this brilliant cause.”

Kate McMahon, Supporter Led Fundraising Lead at Save the Children, said: “We are so grateful for the support of Artem and Tamsin and their incredible fundraising efforts.

“Save the Children’s work is only possible thanks to inspiring people, and companies like Specscart, and their amazing commitment to make the world a better place for children.

“The money raised for our Children’s Emergency Fund will help children in some of the most vulnerable communities – including those affected by war, displacement or poverty.

“In the UK and around the world, we make sure children keep safe, healthy and learning.”

Specscart is a Manchester-based eyewear company which designs and sells glasses, sunglasses and sports eyewear through its shops and online.

For more information, visit www.specscart.co.uk