Will Young and Rob Rinder stars of the show as £60,000 is raised for Newbury Soup Kitchen

It was a night to remember for Newbury Soup Kitchen as it hosted a charity auction and dinner.

The charity’s patron, singer Will Young, was on hand again to support the fundraising showcase.

And for the third year the master of ceremonies and auctioneer was TV personality Rob Rinder.

The event, which was hosted at the Vineyard, raised a staggering £60,000 for Newbury Soup Kitchen.

“The occasion highlighted the remarkable support, community spirit, and generosity throughout the town,” said the charity’s chief executive Meryl Praill.

She added that Mr Rinder “provided, skill, humour by entertaining the audience and encouraging generous contributions and bids for the incredible prizes”.

Mr Rinder said: “I’m coming to this part of the world that understands above all else that it is a community responsibility, a family responsibly, it’s our responsibility to look after those amongst us within our community who have nothing.

“That’s a starting point because the world isn’t coming to fix this.

“I feel immensely proud and I continue to be proud to be here, friends I’m proud of each and every one of you for supporting Newbury Soup Kitchen, showing the rest of the country and the world that there’s no such thing as a small charity, but there is communities like this that understand that our values, our value, as a community has a limitless power to change and shape the lives of those who need it most and thank you all for being here.”

The evening kicked off with a game of heads and tails, with the winner taking away an impressive wheelbarrow of donated alcohol.

Guests then enjoyed a three course meal at The Vineyard, provided by executive chef Tom Scade and his team.

“They have supported our charity for years, we can’t thank them enough,” added Mrs Praill.

“A stunning All Angels sparkling wine welcome started the evening beautifully, which was supported by Mark Darley from All Angels Vineyard.”

She said the “pinnacle of the night” was the auction, with 19 lots donated from Banjo Cycles, The Vineyard, new restaurant The Braywood and Inn at Home.

Raffle prizes were also donated by local companies including Pro-Vision, Camp Hopson, Flowerpot Café, Mia Fiore, Gourmet Pasta Company, The Damson and The Vineyard.

“This shows the passion, community spirit, and generosity among those surrounding us and their commitment to the vital work we undertake,” Mrs Praill said.

“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.

“Unfortunately, homelessness, food poverty, mental health issues, and evictions are escalating challenges. The support of our community and our 25 soup dragons is pivotal.

“Thank you to Secure Systems for rounding up the raised amount for the evening to the whopping final total of £60,000. This will help our challenges next year immensely.”

If you would like to get involved with the Newbury Soup, you can email them at enquire@newburysoupkitchen.org.uk

Newbury Soup Kitchen was founded by Mrs Praill in 2017 and is dedicated to advancing food provision and outreach across the Newbury area.

Pictures by Elizabeth Vickers Photography.