Kingston Park Stadium will play host to a special fundraising event this summer, aiming to raise £30,000 in support of two incredible causes – the Newcastle Rugby Foundation and Wooden Spoon Charity.
Taking place on Thursday July 3, 2025, the event will celebrate the power of rugby to inspire change while directly supporting communities across the North East.
Leading the line-up is Sara Cox MBE, the world’s first female professional rugby referee, who will share her trailblazing journey in the game. She’ll be joined by a host of rugby legends for an afternoon of stories, insight and celebration, all in support of disadvantaged children and community programmes across the region.
The afternoon will be hosted by former Falcons favourites Ally Hogg and Rob Vickers, and feature Q&A sessions with Susie Appleby, Simon Middleton, Rob Vickerman, Hugh Vyvyan, Nathan Hines and Tony Underwood.
Guests will enjoy arrival drinks, a three-course meal and entertainment, with a charity auction and raffle offering exclusive prizes — all while raising vital funds to support rugby’s impact in the community.
Tables of 10 are priced at £1,000, with individual seats and smaller group options also available. The event runs from 12pm to 5pm, with the bar remaining open until 7pm.
This summer’s fundraiser also marks the countdown to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, which kicks off in Sunderland just 50 days later, on Friday August 22.
Mel Magee, CEO of Newcastle Rugby Foundation, said: “Rugby is more than just a sport – it’s a force for good that brings people together and changes lives.
“With just 50 days to go until the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, this event is about harnessing that energy to make a real difference for communities across the region.
“By raising £30,000, we can help those who need it most through targeted programmes and activity. I’m incredibly proud to see the rugby family come together to inspire hope and create opportunities where they’re needed.”
Iain Stewart, Chair of Wooden Spoon Northumberland, added: “Wooden Spoon is incredibly proud to be working alongside Newcastle Rugby Foundation to deliver a truly memorable event that celebrates the power of rugby to unite and uplift.”
Paul Tully, Chair of Wooden Spoon Durham, said: “Together, we are raising vital funds that will directly support disadvantaged children and young people across the North East. This partnership shows what can be achieved when two charities with a shared passion for community come together.”
Sara Cox MBE added: “I’m really excited to be speaking at the Newcastle Rugby Foundation’s Charity Lunch on July 3rd!
“It’s an honour to support such amazing causes that make a real difference in people’s lives.
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen the power of teamwork and community, and I’m looking forward to celebrating that spirit while raising funds for the Foundation and the Wooden Spoon Charity.”
To book your place and support the cause, click below.
