Quiz Night raises more than £15,000

More than 180 guests from across the county attended the event, which was held to raise funds for The Bridges, a residential rehabilitation centre specialising in supporting men who have issues with drugs and alcohol and have been in the criminal justice system. The Bridges is run by The Forward Trust, formerly known as RAPt.

The evening was presided over by High Sheriff of East Riding of Yorkshire Thomas Martin, who played quiz master for the evening. He said of the event: “It was an evening of asking the questions: not just for the quiz, but of ourselves. The clients of The Bridges deserve every opportunity to make a new life for themselves and it has been a genuine privilege to spend time with them and learn from them.”

Local businesswoman Victoria Carver, who organised the evening and is a member of the Yorkshire based Fundraising Advisory Committee, a group of local people who raise money and awareness for The Bridges, said: “It was a fantastic evening for a marvellous cause, we were delighted to raise so much money for The Bridges. As a huge supporter of The Bridges, who has had the opportunity to visit the centre on many occasions, I have seen first-hand how it can and has changed lives.”

Former clients from The Bridges also attended the evening, helping to make it the success it was, including Peter, who spoke to guests about how his life had changed for the better since he had been at the centre. These men, mostly ex-prisoners who are now living productive lives free from drug, alcohol and crime, sold raffle tickets and helped to make the evening the success it was, as well as taking part in marking answers and talking to guests about how their lives have been turned around by The Bridges.

Simon, who completed treatment at The Bridges earlier this year, said: “It wasn’t easy, but I completed the treatment. Today I have a second chance at life. Without The Bridges I don’t know how I would have got the help I needed.”

Craig Dexter, Senior Counsellor at The Bridges, said: “I would like to thank Victoria and the entire fundraising committee for all the work they do for The Forward Trust. The annual quiz is just one example of their fundraising work and we are truly grateful. Everyone involved in The Forward Trust’s work believes passionately in The Bridges and the tremendous support it gives ex-prisoners who are trying to change their lives and make fresh start, away from drugs, alcohol and crime. They are also acutely aware of the need to fund this treatment.”

Every penny raised for The Forward Trust and The Bridges actually saves money in the long term, as well as giving ex-offenders their life, health and dignity back. But it’s not just about raising money. We also need to raise awareness about the great work The Bridges does, especially amongst employers in the Hull region, who might be interested in giving work experience or jobs to former clients of The Bridges.