Charity Barn Dance raises over £12,000 for community organisations across North and East Yorkshire

Over 100 people came together for a charity Barn Dance at the De Grey Rooms in York on Friday 6 February, raising more than £12,000 for Two Ridings Community Foundation’s 25th Anniversary Appeal.

The event was led by the Big Deal band, who were celebrating their 40th year. Musicians from around the world came together to play, and from the very first tune they had guests up on their feet and dancing.

Celia McKeon, Chief Executive of Two Ridings Community Foundation, told us…

“Events like this show what community really means – people coming together, enjoying themselves and supporting local groups. Through ticket sales, the bar and fundraising on the night, we raised over £6,000. With match funding, this has grown to more than £12,000, all of which is going into our 25th Anniversary Appeal to support community organisations across North and East Yorkshire. Thank you to everyone involved.”

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed delicious food from Partisan and Brancusi, plenty of dancing, and even a group sing-along to a localised version of Country Roads. Many shared how brilliant it was to be part of an event that brings people together and makes a real impact.

Event attendee Anna Reader stated:

“The atmosphere was fantastic from start to finish. The music was brilliant, the food was delicious and you could really feel the community spirit in the room. Knowing the total raised on the night will support people across Yorkshire made the evening even more meaningful.”

The funds generated will support a wide range of projects across North and East Yorkshire including warm hubs offering friendship and hot meals, groups for young people, projects to improve wellbeing and activities that build community connection.

Richard, from the Big Deal band said:

“It was a treat to share our anniversary with Two Ridings Community Foundation’s 25th. The whole band were touched by the way the Two Ridings team threw their heart and soul into busking in York, on a cold and wet Saturday in January, and barn dancing on the night. It’s the same passion and enthusiasm as they show for the grass roots communities they support and it was a delight for the band to be a part of.”

Two Ridings’ vision is simple: communities where everyone can thrive, now and in the future. Seeing people come together to support that aim was a highlight of the evening.

A big thank you goes to the Big Deal band, Partisan, Brancusi and the Belfrey team at the De Grey Rooms. Thanks also to the local businesses who donated raffle prizes, including Bettys & Taylors Group, LNER, Hugh Rice Jeweller, The Heritage Fruit Company, Continuum Attractions, Phillip Anthony Photography and York Chocolate Story.

People and businesses who care about their local area can also play a part. Donations to the 25th Anniversary Appeal help support small, community‑led projects that make a real difference to people’s lives in North and East Yorkshire. More information is available at https://tworidingscf.org.uk/donate25/