The Dean of Ripon's annual banquet has raised £16,000 for the city's cathedral.

Last year's event was cancelled due to covid but the 2021 evening of feast and fundraising was attended by 150 guests, including sponsors, local businesses, parishioners and members of the public.

The Very Rev John Dobson, said:

The sparking evening was supported by business partners Raworths solicitors, in Harrogate, and wealth management firm Brewin Dolphin, Leeds.

A champagne reception welcomed guests back in to the cathedral once more and a four course dinner, provided by the Yorkshire Party Company, was followed by a live auction conducted by John Tennant and a silent auction.

A number of high value raffle prizes were donated, including dinner for two at Grantley Hall, two cases of wine and a family season pass to Newby Hall.

The prize draw proved popular, raising £1,170 on the night. The vouchers and prizes were donated by local businesses keen to support the cathedral as it recovers from the financial impact of the pandemic.

Guests were entertained by magician Rob Hutchinson and danced to a silent disco wearing headphones.

The date of next year’s banquet will be Friday 14 October to mark the end of the 1,350^th anniversary of St Wilfrid celebrations, which will be taking place throughout 2022.

For further information about how to get involved or to pre-book places contact margarethammond@riponcathedral.org.uk.