Ripon Cathedral’s music, heritage conservation and education programme is to benefit from the £25,000 raised at a banquet in honour of the city’s patron saint.
The event, hosted by the Dean of Ripon the Very Revd. John Dobson, saw the culmination of the cathedral’s 1,350th anniversary celebrations which, over six months, focused on the life and work of Wilfrid, who founded the cathedral in 672 AD.
Held in the cathedral’s ancient nave this month, the banquet was sponsored by estate agent Knight Frank LLP and supported by Harrogate law firm Raworths.
The 300 guests at the black-tie event were entertained by close-up magician Rob Hutchinson and took part in fundraising activities, which included a raffle and angel tree, with prizes donated from the local community.
Diners also participated in both a live and silent auction and the evening finished with a silent disco – where guests donned a pair of headphones and took part in the unique experience of dancing inside the cathedral.
Ripon Cathedral development trust manager Margaret Hammond said:
“The banquet is one of the most spectacular events the cathedral hosts during the year. The building comes alive with guests enjoying the evening in the beautiful candle-lit setting. A unique dining experience held in one of Yorkshire’s most stunning venues.
“The evening provides an opportunity for individuals to support this wonderful ancient building and at the same time enjoy gourmet food, music and much more”.
The next major fundraising event at the cathedral, will be the Christmas Gift and Food Fair, which will be held over two days on November 25 and 26.
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Dean’s banquet raises £16,000 for Ripon Cathedral
The Dean of Ripon’s annual banquet has raised £16,000 for the city’s cathedral.
Last year’s event was cancelled due to covid but the 2021 evening of feast and fundraising was attended by 150 guests, including sponsors, local businesses, parishioners and members of the public.
The Very Rev John Dobson, said:
“What a pleasure it was to welcome the guests to the 2021 Dean’s banquet in the spectacular surroundings of Ripon Cathedral.
“For over 1,300 years people have gathered in this sacred space to celebrate life’s joys and blessings. I am extremely grateful for the remarkable levels of generosity that have been shown by the community, particularly over the last year.”
Dean John said thanks for the generosity shown.
The sparking evening was supported by business partners Raworths solicitors, in Harrogate, and wealth management firm Brewin Dolphin, Leeds.
A champagne reception welcomed guests back in to the cathedral once more and a four course dinner, provided by the Yorkshire Party Company, was followed by a live auction conducted by John Tennant and a silent auction.
A number of high value raffle prizes were donated, including dinner for two at Grantley Hall, two cases of wine and a family season pass to Newby Hall.
The prize draw proved popular, raising £1,170 on the night. The vouchers and prizes were donated by local businesses keen to support the cathedral as it recovers from the financial impact of the pandemic.
Guests were entertained by magician Rob Hutchinson and danced to a silent disco wearing headphones.
The date of next year’s banquet will be Friday 14 October to mark the end of the 1,350th anniversary of St Wilfrid celebrations, which will be taking place throughout 2022.
For further information about how to get involved or to pre-book places contact margarethammond@riponcathedral.org.uk.