On the 26th of January 2024, the Grand Hotel Gosforth Park underwent a magical Scottish transformation at NE Youth’s Annual Burns Night Ball, proudly sponsored by Northern Garden Sheds.

We were joined by over 320 guests, with the collective aim to have a fun night and raise as many funds as we could for NE Youth.

Kicking off the celebrations, NE Youth member Jack Drum Arts took the stage, setting the mood for a night of talent. The fabulous Anna Foster assumed the role of compere, steering us through the evening with her trademark charm and humour.

The night embraced tradition with the lively Heads and Tails game. The Donna Kimberly School of Highland Dancing then brought the spirit of Scotland to life with an incredible performance.

No Burns Night is complete without the Addressing of the Haggis – a moment that transported us straight to the heart of Scottish heritage with Robert Burns’ poem.

This was followed by a three-course Scottish feast, including, of course, Haggis, Neeps and Tatties.

We then commenced the Auction, featuring incredible prizes generously provided by local businesses, all contributing to NE Youth’s work with young people. A huge thank you to all the businesses that donated prizes, including our sponsors Northern Garden Sheds, Vertu BMW Sunderland, the Inn Collection Group and Roflow to name but a few.

The Robert Whitehead band then took centre stage, guiding us through lively Ceilidh dancing. The night ended with a performance by the brilliant Storm Band.

Dave Clayton, Managing Director at the event sponsor Northern Garden Sheds, said:

“After many years of supporting NE Youth, we feel Northern Garden sheds are now in a position to do more and give more back to our local area and NE Youth is a charity close to our hearts that provides the perfect platform for this.”

Jon Niblo, Chief Executive of NE Youth, said:

“NE Youth’s Burns Night Ball is a stand out in our busy fundraising calendar, and we are delighted to have raised an incredible amount of money this year. This money will be a huge contribution to funding our vital services for young people in the North East. Huge thanks to Dave, Ashley and everyone at Northern Garden Sheds and to everyone who has supported this event.”

NE Youth’s Burns Night Ball not only was another incredible evening of entertainment, but also served as a vital fundraiser for NE Youth’s vital services. We are delighted that the evening raised an incredible £21,000 net of all costs!

Thank you to all of the attendees, table hosts and our incredible sponsors Northern Garden Sheds. Thanks also to the Volunteers from NHS Business Services Authority for being a huge help on the night. We cannot wait to do it all again in 2025!