More than 200 guests from the worlds of sport, business and community came together at Kingston Park on Thursday July 3 for an unforgettable Charity Lunch, hosted by Newcastle Rugby Foundation and children’s charity Wooden Spoon. 

Marking 50 days to go until the Women’s Rugby World Cup kicks off in Sunderland this August, the event was both a celebration and a heartfelt call to action – raising over £20,000 for life-changing rugby-based programmes across the North East. 

The afternoon was co-hosted by former Newcastle Falcons players and rugby legends Ally Hogg and Rob Vickers, and featured an inspiring keynote from Sara Cox MBE, the trailblazing referee who shared her personal journey through rugby with honesty, humour and passion. 

A standout panel discussion brought together expert voices including Susie Appleby, Simon Middleton MBE, Louise Latter and Hugh Vyvyan, who reflected on the growth of the women’s game, the power of rugby to transform lives and the significance of hosting this year’s tournament on home soil. 

Among the most powerful moments of the day were stories from local community heroes – real people whose lives have been deeply impacted by the work of Newcastle Rugby Foundation. Introduced by Foundation Ambassador Tony Underwood, these personal accounts embodied the true spirit of the Foundation’s mission: using rugby to inspire, empower and unite. 

Supporting the Future of Rugby in the North East 

The Foundation are deeply grateful for their generous sponsors, BidFood, Womble Bond Dickinson, Gallagher, and the North East Combined Authority, in supporting this event and making their ongoing work possible. 

“This event was about more than rugby – it was about people,” said Melanie Magee, CEO of Newcastle Rugby Foundation. “The stories shared on that stage reminded us why we do what we do. To have raised over £20,000 in the process is an incredible outcome that will directly support more young people across our region.” 

Looking Ahead 

With the Women’s Rugby World Cup just around the corner, the Foundation is proud to continue its role as a Community Engagement Programme Partner, with more events planned throughout the summer—including a series of exciting beach rugby festivals. See them HERE.   

Together, we’re building a future where rugby+ is the positive difference that changes lives for good.