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.
Ripon mayor’s charity event proves a hit
The Magdalens pub in Ripon was alive with the sound of music, as city mayor Eamon Parkin and consort Nigel Guy hosted an afternoon of fun and fundraising.
Proceeds from Saturday’s event, which are still to be finalised, will be shared between Ripon Vision Support and the Ripon Christmas Lights Appeal.
The hog roast and music was arranged after the covid pandemic put paid to the mayor’s ball, which is normally a key fundraiser on the civic calendar.
Cllr Parkin, said:
“I thank the many friends from different organisations and businesses in Ripon, who supported the event and people who travelled some distance to be with us.”
Those who attended included the Pollard family from the north-east — Marjorie, Sharon and Natalie.
Mayor Cllr Eamon Parkin (left) and his consort Nigel Guy, pictured with the Pollard family from the left: Marjorie, Natalie and Sharon
Sharon said:
“We’ve been coming to Ripon for many years and struck up a lasting friendship with Eamon and Nigel.
“We wouldn’t have missed this for the world.”
The Pollards left with an England women’s football shirt signed by members of the World Cup team – just one of many items sold at the charity auction.
The Counterfeit Celts provided music ranging from reggae to Irish folk and rock.
The Counterfeit Celts played from their wide repertoire.
Also providing entertainment was Ripon singer-songwriter and acoustic guitarist Freddie Cleary who, like the band, had attendees singing along.
Many in the audience had last seen him performing on stage as the opening act at the Yorkshire Day Weekend concert.
In the spotlight — Freddie Cleary.
The auction and raffle, included numerous donated items on offer, ranging from sporting memorabilia to jewellery.
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Cllr Parkin is set to go into the record books by becoming the first Mayor of Ripon to serve for three consecutive terms.
He will remain in office until May.