Marking Norfolk Chamber’s 120th anniversary, nearly 200 guests gathered at the historical Norwich Castle Museum on Thursday 19th Mayfor an evening of celebrations.
The wine was flowing as Norfolk Chamber took the opportunity to thank members for their continued support, treating them to an evening of entertainment including a live singer and event raffle.
Held in the stunning Keep at Norwich Castle Museum, guests had the opportunity to explore the Keep’s Basement and Prison Displays, as well as view artefacts sourced from Norfolk Museum Service and Norfolk Chamber, relating to the history of the Chamber. Included in the displays, was the recently refurbished Presidents Board which lists 48 influential and high profile presidents over the course of 120 years.
Speaking at the event Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber said: “For 120 years we have stood for Norfolk, championing its commerce, celebrating its achievements and creating a network of likeminded people who, by sharing their knowledge and experience have created one of the most outstanding business networks in the country.
“Our mission has always been to look to the future of business, through good times and bad, in war and peace, under governments of every hue, the Chamber has been a voice for business, and a voice for Norfolk. Here for our members, because we are our members.”
During the event, Norfolk Chamber launched their Anniversary Fund in conjunction with Norfolk Community Foundation as part of an ongoing campaign. The aim of the fund is to encourage the growth and advancement of Norfolk’s young people, by creating opportunities to help them flourish in employment. Norfolk Chamber will match pound-for-pound every donation made up to £10,000 with the goal being to meet this target within 12 months. Grants will be made to suitable community projects towards the end of 2016.
To kick start the fundraising process, a raffle was held at the event, with 25 members kindly donating prizes from an iPad and Coffee Machine, to gift vouchers, including a meal for four people. Guests gave generously to the cause and Norfolk Chamber raised over £1,000 including the raffle on the evening.
As part of the year long anniversary activities Norfolk Chamber have sponsored the Norwich City of Ale Festival 2016. As a final thank you to members, guests received a special branded pint glass from Norwich City of Ale, as well as a 120 year printed supplement to commemorate the evening.
There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the evening and Twitter was buzzing, with guests posting photos and tweeting their feedback using #Chamber120
NW Brown Group Ltd @NWBrownGroup Great event last night to celebrate the #Chamber120 year anniversary, thank you for the invitation @norfolkchamber
James Elvin @jimmyelvin Cheers to @norfolkchamber for a fantastic evening and also for another successful 120 years! #Chamber120
Lynsey Sweales @LynseySweales Great @norfolkchamber event this evening to celebrate #Chamber120 what a great event! #Norwich #business