Together, we raised almost £10,000 for The Usual Place – a wonderful result from an event on Sunday 26th October 2025 that will have a lasting impact.

What made the day so special was the sense of shared purpose and connection that filled the room. Young people with additional support needs stood shoulder to shoulder with multi-award-winning chefs and hospitality professionals, learning from their expertise and contributing their own skill, energy, and creativity to deliver an exceptional dining experience. Every plate served, every warm welcome, and every shared moment reflected genuine collaboration and mutual respect.

Special and heartfelt thanks go to Fraser, Jonathan and Chitra, the incredible chefs and hospitality team from 1610 The Globe Inn, who not only led the teams on the day but gave their time, inspiration, and expertise over many months to train and prepare the young people in their own kitchen and restaurant. It was an extraordinary learning experience and a powerful endorsement of both the young people’s potential and the generosity of some of the busiest, most respected leaders in their field. We simply couldn’t have done it without them.

All the young people who took part rose to the occasion brilliantly. Their heartfelt speeches, poised service, and evident pride filled the day with energy and joy. And, we all loved compere Lewis Shaw, one very talented young man, who co-hosted the event with distinction alongside Fiona Armstrong, such an experienced national broadcaster and Lord Lieutenant of Dumfries.  Together they guided the afternoon with humour, warmth, and insight that moved many from laughter to tears and back again.

And of course, none of it would have meant the same without our amazing guests. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and generosity created the atmosphere that made it all real — turning training and preparation into a true, live experience. From ticket purchases to raffle and auction bids, every act of engagement helped lift the young people and their mentors. The guests brought the sense of occasion that transformed effort into achievement.

The celebration was enriched by wonderful live music from Piper James Gray, pianist David McCullough and the outstanding singer Claire Hastings, as well as the generosity of individuals and businesses who bought tickets to pay forward, sponsored the whole afternoon or donated beautiful and imaginative prizes. Every contribution – time, talent, laughter, and support – wove together to create something truly memorable, with effects that continue to ripple outward in belief, opportunity, and shared purpose.

Huge congratulations to Evan, Liam and Mentor, Thomas in the Kitchen and to Connor, Ryan, Teigan, Alana and Mentor Sarah (Front of House), all of whom took part in the whole project which included months of training with the team from 1610 The Globe Inn in their kitchens and restaurant.  We also want to give a special mention to interns Harry and Leah who ensured all our guests were welcomed and shown to their seats whilst also running and calling the raffle, organising the auction, and to Harry and Ryan for their amazing speeches on the day.

Thanks also to all our Usual Place Mentors, staff and volunteers and to our sponsors:  Thomson’s FoodServices Patersons Fresh Fruit & Vegetables and Corney & Barrow Fine Wine Merchants and to Annandale Distillery for the wonderful whisky toast.

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See behind the scenes as young people train for this event at 1610 The Globe Inn