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A Record-Breaking Success

Wooden Spoon Merseyside Annual Lunch 2024: A Record-Breaking Success

On Friday 29th November 2024, the Wooden Spoon Merseyside community gathered at the iconic Anfield Stadium for its annual fundraising lunch. This highly anticipated event brought together 271 guests, a mix of loyal supporters, local businesses, partner clubs, and rugby legends, all united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of children and young people through rugby.

A Stellar Line-Up of Guests and Speakers

The event featured an impressive line-up of speakers and special guests:

  • Jim Mills, Welsh and Great Britain Rugby League Legend, delivered an entertaining keynote speech that many attendees praised as one of the best yet.
  • Vickey Hadden from Elleray Park School gave a heartfelt presentation on their recently opened sensory room, a project funded by Wooden Spoon Merseyside.
  • Bill Woolland, acting as both MC and auctioneer, expertly guided the proceedings and the auction.

Other notable attendees included international rugby players from the Vintage Red Roses, including Jenny Smith, Gillian Jew, Alex Pilkington, Emma Garbutt, and Valmai Roberts, as well as representatives from Lancashire, Manchester, and Cheshire Wooden Spoon regions.

A Memorable Experience at Anfield

Held in the ‘The Beautiful Game’ suite on the 5th floor of Anfield Stadium’s Main Stand, the venue provided stunning views of the pitch on one side and a breathtaking panorama of Liverpool and Everton’s Goodison Park on the other.

Guests enjoyed a delicious three-course menu featuring:

  • Starter: Potato and Leek Soup
  • Main: Roast Chicken
  • Dessert: Sticky Toffee Pudding

Fundraising Highlights

The event raised an impressive £21,000, possibly a record-breaking amount for this lunch. Funds will go toward future Wooden Spoon Merseyside projects, continuing the organisation’s vital work in the community.

Auction items included sought-after memorabilia and experiences, such as:

  • Six Nations Tickets for England vs. France and England vs. Scotland
  • Tickets to Dua Lipa at Anfield
  • A framed, signed photo of Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League win with a replica medal
  • Signed memorabilia from Steven Gerrard, Jordan Pickford, and James Tarkowski

A Celebration of Generosity

The success of this event reflects the incredible support of the Wooden Spoon Merseyside community. Attendees demonstrated remarkable generosity during the raffle and auction, while the growing number of women participants added to the event’s inclusivity and vibrancy.

Looking Ahead

This record-breaking lunch exemplifies how community spirit and passion can create meaningful change. Wooden Spoon Merseyside extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, and supported the event. Together, we’re transforming lives and bringing hope to children and young people in need.

Stay tuned for future events and opportunities to support Wooden Spoon Merseyside. Your generosity makes it all possible!