Will Young and Rob Rinder help make it a night to remember for Newbury Soup Kitchen gala evening at The Vineyard

It was a night to remember for Newbury Soup Kitchen as the charity hosted a gala evening at The Vineyard.

Host for the night was Rob Rinder, who was supported by the charity’s patron, music star Will Young.

Meryl Praill CEO and founder of the Soup Kitchen, said: “Will Young was incredible; Rob Rinder was our auctioneer and MC for the evening and his speech at the beginning was so appropriate and poignant.

“I am still pinching myself when I think about our charity, set up seven years ago now and now so privileged to have Will and Rob’s kindness and support is something I never dreamt of.

“I sometimes forget to look up and see the beauty of it, and it is beautiful.

“I am so thankful for our volunteers and people who help us along the way. Between us all we have created something that changes lives, and you cannot put a price on that.”

Mr Rinder “adeptly entertained the audience and encouraged generous contributions” during the 16-lot auction at the event, which raised much needed funds for the charity.

The 138 people present also enjoyed a game of heads and tails, with dedicated volunteer Simon Tillyer winning a wheelbarrow of booze at the end.

The charity said the occasion highlighted the “remarkable support, community spirit, and generosity throughout the town”.

It thanked a number of local companies who donated raffle prizes, including Marsh Fuels, The Malverleys, Camp Hopson and The Vineyard.

Mr Rinder said: "I’m delighted to be part of this event supporting this amazing organisation, which is at the heart of an incredible community and represents the best of who we can be."

A spokesperson for the charity added: “To everyone who attended, our volunteers, supporters, and all who contributed to the evening's success, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

“You are the driving force behind our ability to make a meaningful impact in the community.”

If you would like to find out more about Newbury Soup Kitchen, you can contact them by emailing enquire@newburysoupkitchen.org.uk

All images courtesy of Elizabeth Vickers Photography.