The Percy Hedley Foundation has raised more than £6,000 in an online auction to help support the vulnerable children and adults in its care, including those at Northern Counties School on Tankerville Terrace in Jesmond.

The online auction was held in lieu of Percy Hedley’s traditional annual ball at the Hilton Hotel. Coronavirus restrictions meant this year’s ball had to be cancelled, alongside other fundraising events that usually take place throughout the year.

Northern Counties School provides education and care to pupils who are deaf or hearing impaired, students who have autism and communication difficulties and pupils with complex needs and profound and multiple learning difficulties. The Foundation also operates Percy Hedley School in Killingworth and Hedleys College in Forest Hall, offers residential and respite care for all ages and supports an employability project that works with employers to improve opportunities for disabled people.

Fundraising manager Maria Hallett told JesmondLocal that this challenging year has made it more important than ever to find new ways to raise money. “Every year at the ball, we usually have both a silent and a live auction, so we thought we would take this element and bring at least one aspect of the ball to life,” said Hallett.

“We are grateful to local businesses who donated prizes, despite the difficulties they are also facing.” 

Close House Golf Club, Carruthers & Kent and David Lloyd Leisure Club were among those who donated. The auction also included prizes from David Walliams, who offered a full set of his books dedicated and signed by him, as well as the book he wrote for Simon Cowell which isn’t sold commercially.

Jonathan Lupton, managing director at Close House, told JesmondLocal that the golf club was glad to support the auction again this year. “Having worked with the Percy Hedley Foundation in the past I understand the fantastic work they do throughout the region. I have no doubt that all money raised will be used to great effect.”

The wide range of prizes attracted bids from across the country. Hallett said: “We wanted the auction to include a choice for everyone. Alongside cottage stays in Richmond and Weardale, there was also a signed cricket bat, original art and a Baby Ryedale bird table up for sale.”

In total, £6,101 was raised during the 12-day bidding period, which Hallett says exceeded the Foundation’s expectations. Other fundraising activities are planned for the Christmas period, including virtual carol-singing by the children at Northern Counties School on 7th December. Details on how to donate can be found on the Percy Hedley Foundation website.