The leading youth cricket and disability sports charity in Wales, the Lord's Taverners Wales, has celebrated a record-breaking fundraising achievement. Its annual Christmas Lunches for 2025 brought in more than £43,000, the highest amount ever raised at the event.
A Festive Gathering for a Vital Cause
Held at the Marriott Hotel in Cardiff, the festivities unfolded across two separate events on December 5 and 12, 2025. In total, 540 people came together to support the charity's mission. The lunches served a dual purpose: providing excellent festive entertainment and shining a spotlight on the organisation's impactful work providing sporting opportunities for young people across Wales.
Guests were guided through the proceedings by returning compere Rod Woodward. They enjoyed a sit-down lunch accompanied by entertainment from a roster of comedic talent, including Al Foran, Martin Gold, Robin Morgan, Bob 'The Cat' Bevan, Danny Posthill, and Jess Robinson.
Raffles, Auctions and Community Generosity
A key part of the fundraising effort came from an array of raffle and auction prizes. Attendees had the chance to win sought-after experiences, such as a complimentary stay for two at the Cardiff Marriott Hotel, a Cardiff Rugby hospitality box experience, and tickets to see Lewis Capaldi and Greg Davies.
Andrew Gibson, chairman of the Lord's Taverners Wales, expressed profound gratitude. "We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who continues to support Lord's Taverners Wales," he said. "Each year, we are overwhelmed by the generosity of people in our local community, and 2025 was no exception."
He added, "It is always a humbling moment to receive such great support from friends, family, colleagues and local businesses for our wonderful charity at these events to enable us to support disabled and disadvantaged children and young people in our region through sport."
Where the Funds Will Make an Impact
All proceeds from the Christmas Lunches will go directly towards the charity's work in Wales. Over the last year, Lord's Taverners Wales has expanded its community cricket programmes, known as Wicketz, with hubs now operating in Barry, Ely, Llanrumney, and Pontypridd.
The funds raised will also support other core initiatives, including:
- Raising money for specially adapted minibuses.
- Funding its inclusive Table Cricket programme.
- Providing sports wheelchairs, sensory equipment, and recycled sports kits.
Founded in 1950, the Lord's Taverners charity aims to empower young people facing inequality through the power of sport. Its work in Wales is a critical part of this national mission, creating accessible opportunities and fostering inclusion for disabled and disadvantaged young people.
