Over £30,000 was raised at an evening hosted by Bowcliffe Hall on Friday 17th May in aid of the Archbishop of York’s Youth Trust.

70 guests joined the Archbishop of York at Bowcliffe Hall on Friday evening to enjoy a five-course menu designed and cooked by the Michelin-starred chef Frances Atkins of The Yorke Arms. Mary Berry, and her son Tom, were among the guests attending this event, which was provided courtesy of Jonathan Turner, owner of Bowcliffe Hall.

Guests heard from two schools currently taking part in the Young Leaders Award (YLA), run by the Youth Trust. Students from St Johns CE Primary Academy in Brighouse and Bishop Young Academy in Seacroft shared their experiences of the YLA in addition to partaking in a cookery lesson from Frances Atkins and helping the Bowcliffe team serve canapes to the guests.

The Youth Trust aims to inspire generations of young leaders to change the world for the better by developing character and leadership skills. Through the YLA, the Youth Trust has empowered over 80,000 young people in 650 schools to learn and practice leadership skills that make a difference in other people’s lives.

The Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu said:

“It has been a thoroughly enjoyable evening, the food and company outstanding! It was a joy and delight to hear from the young people what they have learned from their experience of the Young Leaders Award. Working together, thinking of others and serving their communities brings light into our world, and change for the better. Young People are our future. Through the generosity and support of the guests this evening the Youth Trust will be able to reach more schools and encourage more young people to make a difference. Fantastic!”

Mary Berry said:

“Delighted to be invited by Archbishop of York to such a special evening. I am all for supporting the young and the Youth Trust is supporting our children for the future. Bowcliffe Hall is a beautiful venue and Frances Atkins food was simply delicious. Wonderful evening.”

Jonathan Turner concluded:

“The event has been a success in every aspect and all the monies raised will further boost the inspirational work of the Archbishop of York’s Youth Trust in developing the next generation of leaders. An enormous ‘thank you’ to everyone involved for making the evening so memorable.”

About The Bayford Group

The Bayford Group is a privately-owned business with various interests in Energy, Property and Hospitality. The group is led with an entrepreneurial spirit and run by people inspired to make a difference.

Learn more at www.bayford.co.uk

About Bowcliffe Hall

The Bowcliffe Estate is home to the Bayford Group Head Office, which resides within the privately-owned Grade II listed Hall. In addition, we host a diverse mix of tenants and businesses in selected offices within the Hall and wider Estate.  The hall can be utilised for private events, corporate events and weddings.

Learn more at www.bowcliffehall.co.uk.