Oktoberfest 2023

The event, sponsored by Ward Hadaway and Hydrock, took place on 26 October at Brinkburn St Brewery and saw guests enjoying an evening filled with traditional German food, drink and live music by local band, Groovetrain.

Charitable funds were raised throughout the night, with guests participating in a raffle and silent auction with prizes including an overnight stay package at Matfen Hall and a ball assistant opportunity for a Newcastle United match.

Jonathan Seebacher, partner at Ryder said: “We were delighted to host the evening for a sixth year.  The money raised is testament to the north east property and built environment community.  We’re very proud of the success of the event.”

Thanks to continued support from north east businesses, the event raised a grand total of £10,000, with all proceeds going to local charities, Launchpad, Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter and Newcastle United Foundation.  The event has raised over £50,000 for various charities since it was first held in 2013.

David Shaw, CEO at Launchpad said: “We are very grateful to Ryder Architecture and Hydrock for nominating Launchpad as one of the beneficiary charities at this year’s Oktoberfest.   The money raised from this evening will be reinvested to help the previously homeless and unemployed veteran residents with Launchpad, to rebuild their lives.  They benefit from the vital accommodation and other support to resolve their sometimes complex issues to help them to live independently.”

Steve Beharall, CEO at Newcastle United Foundation said: “We are incredibly grateful that Ryder named Newcastle United Foundation as a nominated charity for their amazing Oktoberfest event, helping to raise vital funds to support our charity work in the north east.

“The continued support Ryder provide allows the Foundation to make a real difference to the lives of children, young adults, families and older generations from our NUCASTLE home and in our local community.”

Amy Sansom, events assistant at Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter said: “Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter is immensely grateful to Ryder Architecture and Ward Hadaway for their invaluable support and collaboration at their Oktoberfest event.

“This partnership highlights a shared commitment to improving the lives of our four legged friends and emphasises the profound impact of charitable contributions on our shelter’s mission.  It costs the shelter approximately £1.2 million to run a year with no government funding, making such support from these organisations and everyone attending the event, even more critical.”