Will Young offers support to Newbury Soup Kitchen breakfast Soup Dragon event

Singer Will Young has been out in support of a Newbury charity.

Mr Young is patron of Newbury Soup Kitchen and he made a guest appearance at its fifth Soup Dragons breakfast event last week.

The meeting brought together local businesses for a morning of networking and insights into the essential work carried out by Newbury Soup Kitchen.

Meryl Prail, CEO and founder of the charity, said: “We extend our gratitude to The Vineyard Hotel for their kindness and support in hosting the breakfast meeting.

“Their generosity has provided a warm and welcoming place, where myself and our team of wonderful volunteers can provide insights into the charity’s work in the community and the rising challenges of homelessness.

“We couldn’t do what we do without a regular income stream provided by Soup Dragons and kind donations from across the community and The Vineyard.”

She also said it had been great for Mr Young to be able to add his support and encouragement to the charity’s cause.

At the event, the importance of the Soup Dragons was highlighted – with them securing regular income for Newbury Soup Kitchen to maintain its running costs and expand its services.

Two of the Soup Dragons are now embarking on separate fundraising activities.

Newbury Building Society is organising a sleep out to raise money in October, while Mettal UK Ltd is sponsoring the charity’s upcoming golf day.

“Excitingly some of our volunteers are taking on the challenge of climbing the three peaks to further support the charity,” Mrs Prail added.

“Their dedication and commitment to making a difference is truly inspiring and highlights the importance of community-driven initiatives in tackling homelessness and adversity.

“As we look towards the future, the need for continued support and fundraising efforts becomes increasingly vital.

“The income generated from events such as these, along with the support of our community, will enable us to work towards securing our own building where we can consolidate our services and expand our reach even further.”

You can support this fundraiser by visiting www.soupmountain.com.

You can find out more about the soup kitchen – or about becoming a Soup Dragon or volunteer – at www.newburysoupkitchen.org.uk

Simon Tillyer, from Effect Systems, who is a volunteer and Dragon, also presented a light hearted presentation about the challenge but with a serious side of how hard it will be and how important the fundraising is.