Webb Ellis Cup Returns to Newcastle for Charity Gala
The Webb Ellis Cup, the trophy awarded at each Rugby World Cup, will return to Newcastle for the first time in over a decade as part of a charity fundraiser on December 3. The event, hosted by technology startup KLIK SaaS at the Dakota Hotel on Newcastle Quayside, will feature 2003 World Cup winner Ben Cohen MBE as guest of honor.
Evening to Support MND Awareness and Rugby Charities
Guests will enjoy a drinks reception, dinner, charity auction, and a question-and-answer session with Cohen, who plans to share stories from his rugby career and discuss leadership, resilience, and life after professional sport. Attendees will also have the chance to take photos with Cohen and the Webb Ellis Cup, which last visited the region during a tour ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Beneficiaries include Champions 03, which supports retired rugby players transitioning to civilian life, and the Lewis Moody Foundation, which raises funds to combat brain tumors. The event also aims to raise awareness of motor neurone disease, or MND, following former England captain Lewis Moody’s diagnosis, and early-onset dementia, which affected fellow 2003 World Cup winner Steve Thompson.
Cohen, who helped England secure its only Rugby World Cup title in 2003, described the trophy as a symbol of one of the greatest moments in English sporting history. “The Webb Ellis Cup represents one of the greatest moments in English sporting history,” he said. “It will always hold a very special place in my heart.”
KLIK SaaS Brings Community Focus to Fundraiser
Founded in 2023 by North East entrepreneur Kelly Whitfield, KLIK SaaS builds software that helps organizations create online communities through forums, events, messaging, and subscription tools. Whitfield called the event a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for rugby fans in the region.
“This is going to be an incredible evening — and what a coup for Newcastle to be the first city in the North East to host the cup,” Whitfield said. “KLIK SaaS is all about community, not only in business but in life and sport.” She added that only six tables are available, urging interested guests to inquire quickly.
