The Gavel Lodge Valentine’s Masquerade Ball Raises £4,000 for Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter

The Gavel Lodge recently hosted a Valentine’s Masquerade Ball at the Grand Hotel Gosforth Park Newcastle, raising £4,000 in aid of Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter. The event featured a drinks reception, a four-course meal, and live entertainment, alongside several fundraisers including a golden ticket, raffle, and auction.

Iain Riddell, Fundraising & Marketing Manager at the Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter, thanked The Gavel Lodge and the attendees for their support. “We’re grateful for the partnership with The Gavel Lodge and for everyone who contributed to making the Valentine’s Masquerade Ball a success. The funds raised are essential for our ongoing efforts to provide care and shelter for animals in need.”

Colin Bowman, a member of The Gavel Lodge and organiser of the event, emphasised the importance of supporting animal welfare. “Supporting the community and giving back, especially to animals who are often our closest companions, is crucial. We’re pleased with the event’s success and the difference it will make in the lives of many animals. This shows the impact of community efforts towards a common goal.”

The event marks a longstanding relationship between the Northumberland Freemasons and the Shelter, who have previously supported Shelter events and also donated funds to build animal cages in the Shelter van, which is used for vet visits and supermarket donation runs.

“It currently costs the Shelter over £1.25m just to keep our doors open. This is a sum that weighs heavily without any statutory government funding, and we’re very reliant on the support of our local community to keep our doors open.” Iain adds

“The support of the Northumberland Freemasons has been a lifeline to us. We’re very grateful for their support, and to raise £4,000 is a fantastic achievement and will go a long way to making a difference.” Iain Concludes.

For more information about the Northumberland Freemasons, please visit: www.northumberlandmasons.org.uk