Quiz goers raise nearly £800 for Oxjam Dalston

Committed: Oxjam Dalston’s team of volunteers. Photograph: Lynne McDowell

Quiz goers raised nearly £800 for Oxjam Dalston at the Scolt Head pub yesterday evening.

More than 70 participants put their knowledge to the test in aid of Oxfam’s flagship music initiative.

The cash raised by the event will boost the coffers for Oxjam Dalston’s October Takeover event.

The Oxjam Takeover is to be a multi-venue affair across Dalston, featuring local emerging talent and to bring in cash.

The money raised by the quiz is the first step towards Oxjam Dalston’s £10,000 fundraising goal.

A host of local businesses rallied in support, offering unique prizes for the quizzers.

Donations included tickets for Reading and Leeds festivals, a crate of barley wine, a cocktail cruise and a free haircut.

April Smith, who works at the pub, said: “The place was really busy and there were some great prizes up for grabs.

“It was a nice mix of people, with good music, and very lively. All in all, a great night.”

Amy Barber, who heads up the Takeover team, said: “We have been absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity of local businesses and we are truly thankful for their kind donations which helped us to surpass last night’s funding target.

“It sets a high bar for our future fundraising events ahead of the main Oxjam Takeover in October which will see local venues welcome artists and music fans from all over, with the single objective of raising money to eradicate global poverty.

“Oxjam is a great opportunity for local businesses and the community to come together through music and other cool events like this one, whilst raising money for a great cause. We hope that more businesses will want to support us and help us reach our goal.”

Oxjam puts on hundreds of gigs across the UK every October and it celebrates its tenth anniversary this year.

The main Takeover is scheduled for 15 October, with proceeds going to help to fight global poverty.