Thursday, 10th April was our grand 90th Anniversary Gala Dinner, sponsored by Robertson North Ltd, at The Fed in Gateshead.
This celebration marked a remarkable journey of service and impact in North East communities since 1935. Over 400 guests joined in the festivities to commemorate and celebrate our long history of making a difference in young people’s lives across the North East.
Coming together to celebrate 90 years helping young people
Guests were treated to a welcome drink on arrival and mingled, creating a buzz of anticipation around the venue. Right on time, everyone took their seats at tables themed by year, reflecting our heritage and the 1 million+ young people we’ve supported over 90 years.
Jack Drum Arts’ raucous performance of Get Set Samba livened the crowd before Host Anna Foster (radio Newcastle presenter) welcomed assembled friends, supporters, members and sponsors, speaking with passion about NE Youth’s history, legacy and plans for the future.
Sponsor Ian Robertson of Robertson North Ltd spoke eloquently about his personal journey through Walker Boys’ Club and the challenges facing young people today that inspired his support. Mayor of Gateshead, Cllr Kath McCartney, gave a lovely speech about why she chose NE Youth as her nominated charity and our relationship since she was elected.
Young people’s group Lawnmowers raised the tempo again with their breakdance routine before the whole room took to their feet for a game of Heads and Tails, with an impromptu sing-off to decide which of the two winners took the top prize!
The venue became a soundscape of conversation and the clinking of cutlery as guests enjoyed their delicious (and beautifully presented) three-course meals, while photographs from our history were played on the big screens.
As plates were cleared, it was time for teen singer-songwriter Josie Littlewood to delight everyone with her singing talent and get people dancing before the live auction began.
A competitive crowd bid for wonderful prizes such as a private box at Newcastle Racecourse (donated by Dame Margaret Barbour), a Newcastle United ball boy/girl experience (Newcastle United Foundation), and a personal lighting of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge (Mayor of Gateshead), to name just a few.
Dancing the night away to live music
The entertainment continued as youngster Alf Hill and his guitar enthralled the audience with a mix of covers and his own songs.
Next, popular singer Channy took to the microphone, and her powerful voice belted out tunes both modern and classic — even moving down to the dancefloor to join the party!
We are so proud that all our performers were made up of those who are, or have been, part of NE Youth’s programmes and sessions in the community.
John Niblo, CEO of NE Youth, commented:
“Nine decades is a long time! The fact that we are still going and growing is an incredible feat! Our Gala event allowed us to celebrate the rich history of NE Youth, catch up with old friends and supporters whilst being entertained by some brilliant young people … and we raised a few quid too! Now more than ever we need financial support to ensure our sustainability and our promise to the young people of the region.
Huge thanks to our sponsor Robertson North Ltd and all who donated on the night. We raised around £12,000 profit, which means we can support so many more young people. What an incredible evening!”
Carriages arrived as the event drew to a close, whisking away the people who helped us celebrate this important and incredible milestone. Thank you for being a part of our history — we hope you will be a part of our future too.
See more about or event online here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0kyw98x
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/ne-youth-anniversary-gala-celebrates-31406717
https://hellorayo.co.uk/hits-radio/newcastle/news/ne-youth-gala/
https://bdaily.co.uk/articles/2025/04/14/ne-youth-celebrates-past-and-looks-forward
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