Humber Rescue's 35th anniversary gala in Hull raises impressive £100,000

The Humber Rescue 35th Anniversary Gala Ball has been hailed a resounding success, raising an impressive £100,000 for the independent lifeboat charity.

The event took place on Saturday, November 23 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hull, and marked the first black-tie gala ball in the Humber Rescue's history. It sold out within three weeks of its announcement.

The evening was organised entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers, spearheaded by Yusef Forster and Sam Willis, and brought together supporters, sponsors, and local community members to celebrate the charity's vital work and its remarkable 35-year legacy. Yusef said: "This event started as an idea just nine months ago.

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"To see it become a reality and raise £100,000 is beyond anything we could have imagined. The level of support from everyone involved has been overwhelming, and it truly reflects the impact Humber Rescue has on our community."

The evening showcased three powerful films that highlighted the realities of life as part of the Humber Rescue team—stories of courage, commitment, and the challenges faced by those on the front lines. One particularly poignant moment was the complete silence in the room during these films, which left a lasting impact on attendees and underscored the importance of the charity’s work.

In addition to heartfelt speeches and a formal dinner, the event included an auction and raffle, which helped contribute to the impressive fundraising total. Several sponsors have already expressed interest in increasing their contributions for next year, paving the way for the gala to become an annual event.

The funds raised will directly support Humber Rescue, an independent lifeboat charity that plays a critical role in search and rescue operations on the Humber Estuary and surrounding waters.

Sam Willis, one of the event organisers and a Humber Rescue volunteer, said: "This gala was more than just a fundraiser—it was a demonstration of the unwavering community support for Humber Rescue. To everyone who contributed, no matter how big or small, and to all the crew past and present, this success belongs to you. We’ve created a blueprint for the future, and I’m proud to say we’re just getting started."

Dave Roberts, Chairman of Humber Rescue, added: "When announcing the final total raised, I was truly amazed. The level of support in the room was inspiring and a powerful testament to the strength of community. The dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our supporters remind us every day why we do what we do.

"The evening’s success not only funds vital resources but also raises much-needed awareness of the critical work we do. Having volunteered with Humber Rescue for over 34 years, I couldn’t be prouder of the team—past and present—who work tirelessly to make this charity what it is. Their commitment is the backbone of everything we achieve, and the Gala Ball was a celebration of that dedication."

Ian Bennett, Trustee of Humber Rescue, reflected on the event: "This event was a milestone for the charity. It not only celebrated our 35 years of service but also laid the foundation for future events. I’m immensely proud of what we achieved and grateful to everyone who contributed to such an unforgettable evening."

Paul Berriff, Founder of Humber Rescue, said: "When I started Humber Rescue, I could never have imagined the journey it would take or the incredible support it would receive. Seeing the evening’s turnout and the generosity of everyone involved was a deeply moving experience. It’s a testament to the dedication of our team and the importance of the work we do. "

For more information on Humber Rescue and how to support their work, please visit https://www.humber-rescue.co.uk.