Roman Catholic Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle

 

One of the most prestigious corporate events in the North East calendar was held Friday evening, 22nd February. The St Cuthberts Care Annual Corporate Ball celebrated its 10th Anniversary and amongst the many celebrities and guests who support the Charity’s amazing work in support of profoundly disabled people and their families were Sir Bobby Robson and Alan Shearer.

 

A special presentation recognising the stalwart support, commitment and inspiration of Sir Bobby, the Charity’s Patron since 2002, was made during the evening by Alan Shearer, a principal benefactor.

 

 

Under the patronage of Sir Bobby, St Cuthberts Care has created its flagship project, the Alan Shearer Centre. This unique Centre, opened in 2007, provides day and residential respite and therapy services. It cost over £2m to build and benefited from £¼ million donation from Alan Shearer’s testimonial fund.

 

Austin Donohoe, Chief Executive of St Cuthberts Care said:

‘We are delighted to be able to honour Sir Bobby in this way and grateful to Alan for making the presentation.

At St Cuthberts Care we strive to enliven and improve the lives of the many thousands of families affected by disability and the ties, commitment and obligations which disability brings. Too often ad-hoc lip service is paid to their needs. Our work is superior and unique; we provide enhanced support and often address needs which are not accommodated by any other organisation. To achieve these levels of excellence we are forced to fund-raise."

Sir Bobby Robson said:

‘I am moved and honoured to have my support and help recognised in this way.

‘As far as I can see, helping is instinctive. I am grateful to have the opportunity within my gift of being able to help shine the spotlight on the astonishing work of St Cuthberts Care, the benefit which it brings to so many and the tireless, selfless and often invisible support of their team.’

The Charity hopes to break previous records and raise £100,000 at Friday’s event. One of the highlights of the evening is the ‘Money Can’t Buy’ auction. This year one of the main lots is ‘A Day with Design Guru, George Davis’. This unique opportunity for two includes being chauffeur driven to meet George Davies for a champagne lunch at his studios in the heart of the Cotswolds. Here the guests will have a top ‘per una’ stylist create their own look from the Spring Collection before enjoying a make-up and hair make over, finishing the day with a photo shoot at George’s own photographic studios.

 

St Cuthberts Care Ball organiser, Moira Ashman, said;
‘The ‘Money Can’t Buy’ auction is always a real highlight – over the years we had some amazing donations including a golfing four ball with Alan Shearer and Michael Owen, a private dinner with Sir Bobby Robson and a personal coaching session with Jonny Wilkinson.

 

‘All the funds raised from the evening come from the auction, raffles, tombola and sponsorship; guests receive full value for their ticket price. We are very grateful to all those who give so generously, to our main sponsors Barclays Commercial, and we are particularly grateful to everyone who puts their hands deep in their pockets and… BUYS!’