A SPIRITED quiz night held at the Waie Inn, Zeal Monachorum, on January 16, successfully raised £1,500 to support the Haven of Hope orphanage in Lipova, Romania.

Organised as part of a long-standing fundraising effort, the event saw teams from Exeter, Torquay, Crediton, Zeal and Okehampton come together to contribute to the orphanage, which has been supported for over 30 years by groups from Devon.

The winning team from Okehampton!
The winning team from Okehampton! (Matt Jackson)

The evening was arranged as part of the aid to Eastern Europe initiative through Exwick Community Church, who make multiple visits each year providing aid and support in both Romania and Moldova.

The quiz was hosted by Tom Darby Clark, featuring a challenging music round, a lively raffle, and most importantly a fun atmosphere.

Around 70 participants enjoyed the event, testing their knowledge on a variety of topics while raising funds for a worthy cause.

Supporters of the Orphanage, having taken local teams for the last 30 years, John and Dorcas Sumner, Matt and Natalie Jackson, Dave and Liz Sumner and Mark and Gemma McCutcheon.
Supporters of the Orphanage, having taken local teams for the last 30 years, John and Dorcas Sumner, Matt and Natalie Jackson, Dave and Liz Sumner and Mark and Gemma McCutcheon. (Matt Jackson)

The winning team walked away with a selection of traditional Romanian food that connected the evening’s activities to the community it aimed to support.

The raffle, which was a highlight of the evening, boasted a range of generous prizes donated by several local businesses, all of whom played a crucial role in making the night a success.

Hosts and organisers from Aid to Eastern Europe, Natalie Jackson, Matt Jackson and Tom Darby Clark.
Hosts and organisers from Aid to Eastern Europe, Natalie Jackson, Matt Jackson and Tom Darby Clark. (Matt Jackson)

Event Organiser Matt Jackson expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone involved: “We are incredibly grateful to all who donated, attended, and supported this important cause. This is an incredible result, and it will make a real difference in the lives of the children at Haven of Hope.”

Fun and great conversation between the teams at the Waie Inn.
Fun and great conversation between the teams at the Waie Inn. (Matt Jackson)

The funds raised will go directly towards supporting the orphanage’s ongoing efforts to provide for the children’s needs, including education, shelter, and basic care.

With the generosity of the local community, the Haven of Hope orphanage will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those who rely on its services.

Fun and great conversation between the teams at the Waie Inn.
Fun and great conversation between the teams at the Waie Inn. (Matt Jackson)

For those who were unable to attend but still wish to contribute, donations can still be made to the Exwick Community Church, Just Giving Page, marking your donation as “Romania”.

Fun and great conversation between the teams at the Waie Inn.
Fun and great conversation between the teams at the Waie Inn. (Matt Jackson)

Matt concluded: “A huge thank you once again to all who supported this fundraising effort, and we look forward to a rematch in the near future!”