Henry Cator, High Steward of Great Yarmouth and Chair of the Norfolk Community Foundation, opened the event by reminding the audience that they were in a building conceived and funded by visionary philanthropists and brought back from the brink of demolition as a result of the vision and close working of the Borough Council, the St George’s Theatre Trust and a committed body of funders, charity supporters and volunteers. Echoing the overall theme of the event, he pointed out that it was a great example of what can be achieved when a vision is embraced by a local community and supported by the public, private and charitable sectors.

Richard Packham, energy consultant, ex-Chief Executive of the Borough Council and former trustee of the Norfolk Community Foundation, talked about how the coming together of the three sectors had already delivered many benefits and how continued collaboration can only make Great Yarmouth stronger.

Claire Cullens, Chief Executive of the Norfolk Community Foundation, introduced a video showcasing some of the grassroots charities that it has supported in recent years that are delivering vital services to support vulnerable people in the town. She emphasised that the Foundation is playing a lead role in bridging the gap between those in need and those who can help. Summing up, she added, “Great Yarmouth’s future will be shaped by the town’s local authorities and committed business and community leaders, but will be defined by lots of the work that occurs at a community level.”

The Bishop of Norwich, Graham James, closed the event, urging people to support the work of the Norfolk Community Foundation.

Norfolk Community Foundation would like to thank Brewin Dolphin, one of the UK’s leading Wealth Management firms, for kindly sponsoring this event to help us inform others about our work.