Record-breaking Sports Lunch Hull raises over £108k for Sailors’ Children’s Society
HUGE SUCCESS: Matt Dawson at the Sports Lunch Hull
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
Sailors’ Children’s Society is celebrating a record-breaking year for its flagship Sports Lunch Hull, which raised £108,893 after costs – the highest total in the event’s history.
The event brought together businesses, sponsors and supporters for an afternoon of entertainment and fundraising to support children and families from seafaring backgrounds facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
This year’s keynote speaker was Rugby World Cup winner and television personality Matt Dawson, who had the room in laughter as he shared stories from his career, including England’s legendary 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, his experiences on Strictly Come Dancing and his years as a team captain on A Question of Sport.
Matt also showed his generosity by auctioning two signed rugby balls, which together raised more than £6,000 for the final total.
He 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.”
Adding to the occasion, Olympic athletes Jamie Baulch and Colin Jackson also attended, joining guests for a memorable afternoon.
A wide selection of auction and raffle prizes, including exclusive money-can’t-buy experiences, helped boost the fundraising total.
One standout prize was a Rolex Submariner, made possible with support from Hugh Rice Jewellers, giving guests the chance to win one of the world’s most sought-after watches.
Throughout the afternoon, guests also heard first-hand about the difference their generosity makes to families supported by Sailors’ Children’s Society.
Rhiannon Beeson, interim chief executive of Sailors’ Children’s Society, shared several moving family stories, highlighting how the charity provides financial, practical and emotional support to children and families experiencing bereavement, family breakdown, illness and financial hardship.
Speaking after the event, Rhiannon 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.”
This year’s main sponsors were Beerhouse Self Drive, John Good Group, Williamsons Solicitors, Garness Jones and United Rental Group.
The charity also welcomed several new associate sponsors, including T2, Diony, Hugh Rice, Consortium Recruitment and PD Ports, alongside long-standing supporters Pemec, Cati, All Vision and Virgin Money.
Founded in Hull in 1821, Sailors’ Children’s Society has spent 205 years supporting children and families from seafaring backgrounds through some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
Today, the charity works with families across the UK, providing monthly financial grants, emergency assistance, school uniforms, winter clothing, respite breaks and dedicated family support to help children and their families find stability, security and hope for the future.
To find out more, visit https://sailorschildren.org.uk/