Rhiannon Beeson, interim chief executive of the historic Sailors’ Children’s Society, was left speechless
Matt Dawson, keynote speaker at the Sailors’ Children’s Society Sports Lunch in Hull.(Image: Sailors Children’s Society)
An historic charity that helps children and families from seafaring backgrounds has hailed a record-breaking fundraise at is annual flagship event. The Sailors’ Children’s Society’s Sports Lunch Hull recently raised £108,893 after costs – the highest in the event’s history.
The Hilton Hull event brought together businesses, sponsors and supporters for an afternoon of entertainment in aid of the charity, which helps people as they face some of life’s toughest challenges. Rugby World Cup winner and TV personality Matt Dawson was this year’s keynote speaker, sharing stories from his career including England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup victory and his involvement in Strictly Come Dancing, and as a team captain on A Question of Sport.
Matt also auctioned two signed rugby balls, which together raised more than £6,000 for the final total. And throughout the afternoon, guests heard first-hand about the impact of donations on families support by the Sailors’ Children’s Society, which has been operating for more than 200 years.
Rhiannon Beeson, interim chief executive of the society, shared several moving stories that demonstrated how the charity provides financial, practical and emotional support to children and families experiencing bereavement, family breakdown, illness and financial hardship. Matt Dawson said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time in Hull. The atmosphere in the room was fantastic, and it was brilliant to see so many people coming together for such an important cause.
“Hearing about the work Sailors’ Children’s Society does, and the difference that support makes to children and families when life takes an unexpected turn, was incredibly moving. It’s a charity with an amazing history, but what really stands out is the impact they’re making for families today. I’m delighted to have played a small part in helping raise such an incredible amount.”
Olympic athletes Jamie Baulch and Colin Jackson were also in attendance at the event which was supported by main sponsors Beerhouse Self Drive, John Good Group, Williamsons Solicitors, Garness Jones and United Rental Group. Several new associate sponsors also backed the event, including T2, Diony, Hugh Rice, Consortium Recruitment and PD Ports, alongside long-standing supporters Pemec, Cati, All Vision and Virgin Money.
Ms Beeson said: “I am genuinely speechless. Raising £108,893 after costs and setting a record for Sports Lunch Hull is incredible. Everyone’s generosity and support were overwhelming. I had the privilege of sharing some of our families’ stories during the afternoon because behind every table booked, every sponsorship, every raffle ticket and every auction bid is a child or family whose life can be changed by that generosity.
“From helping to put food on the table and providing school uniforms and warm winter clothing, to giving families a much-needed break or simply being there when everything feels overwhelming, the money raised will make a very real difference.
“It costs over £1m every year to run Sailors’ Children’s Society and deliver the support our families rely on. Events like Sports Lunch Hull are vital in helping us remain there for families in crisis.
“I want to say the biggest thank you to our amazing team, every business that sponsored the event, everyone who bought a table, donated a prize, placed a bid or supported us in any way. We simply couldn’t do what we do without you. To see so many people come together with such generosity and enthusiasm is something I’ll never take for granted.”
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