In the majestic setting of Newcastle Cathedral, high-profile figures from the North East business, civic and faith communities came together for a Gala Dinner which raised over £30,000 for charity.
At the inaugural St Nicholas Gala Dinner, named after the Cathedral’s generous patron saint, 220 guests were captivated by the Cathedral’s rich architecture, live music from the Cathedral Choir and an enchanting performance by stilt performers and jugglers, Calvos, as well as cuisine from Boldon Farmhouse Pantry, and a live auction.
Partner at commercial property firm Naylors Gavin Black and trustee at Newcastle Cathedral Trust, Chris Pearson, helped organise the event.
“In centuries gone by, a fire was lit at night in the Cathedral’s Lantern Tower as a beacon to help boats navigate their way home safely, up the River Tyne, in the dark. Linking to this legacy, the Cathedral’s ‘Lantern Initiative’ is a beacon of light to people trying to get through difficult circumstances in life. They may be homeless, have refugee status, be living with addiction and/or poor mental health, lonely, or grieving. This magnificent Gala Dinner has raised much-needed funds to allow the Cathedral to work alongside those who are facing dark or difficult times, to have their voices heard and create a brighter future.”
Chris Pearson
Guests at the dinner included the Dean of Newcastle, the Very Reverend Lee Batson, and the Bishop of Newcastle, the Right Reverend Dr Helen-Ann Hartley. Both have been installed within the past year, signalling an exciting new chapter for the Cathedral and Diocese.
“In my brief time at Newcastle Cathedral, I have been amazed at our work with the street community, those recovering from addiction and survivors of abuse. We also offer musical opportunities to those who come from some of the less advantaged parts of the city – all underpinned by our rhythm of daily prayer and worship. The Gala Dinner has helped to ensure that this vital work can continue and be developed further in the coming years. I am grateful to the Cathedral Trust and members of the Cathedral team for all their work in making this evening happen.”
Dean Lee Batson
Next year’s Cathedral Gala Dinner will take place on 1 May 2025.
“Our thanks to all the businesses and individuals who supported this splendid inaugural Gala Dinner. The Cathedral, as a city anchor institution, is a mother ship providing the framework for so many good and important things to happen. The evening’s proceeds go towards helping maintain that vital function. We’re particularly grateful to Ecclesiastical, as the event’s main sponsor.”
Adrian Waddell, Chairman of Newcastle Cathedral Trust
North East companies who supported the Gala Dinner include Sanderson Weatherall, Jonathan Wallace CS Ltd, Mincoffs Solicitors, Muckle LLP, Hoults Ltd, Durham Group, Naylors Gavin Black, Pegasus Group, Ward Hadaway, JA Lincoln, Lycetts Insurance Brokers, Hoults Yard, St Ebba Capital, Ryder Architecture, Fenwick, Robson Laidler, NCG, Ecclesiastical Insurance and Fusion Connected.
