Railway Benefit Fund goes back to its roots to celebrate 150th anniversary

TV and radio's Barry Cryer to lead celebrations

It’s an event that would make the charity’s founding members proud - the Railway Benefit Fund is holding a special Victorian dinner in October to celebrate its 150th anniversary.

Organised by Woodhouse Communications, the event - at The Brewery, London on Wednesday 15 October 2008 - will not only pay tribute to one of the charity’s first patrons, Charles Dickens, but resurrect the charity’s 19th century tradition of using railway dinners to raise much needed funds for the organisation.

David Allen, Chairman of the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) said: “We are delighted to invite the railway industry to help us celebrate our 150th anniversary at a special Victorian themed fundraising dinner in October. The event will not only mark our 150th birthday, but, by raising much needed funds, allow us to continue providing help and support to railway employees past and present and their families, in the future.”

Diners will be transported back to 19th century Britain at the prestigious black tie event at the Grade II listed building.

Pickpockets, vagabonds and wenches will intermingle with guests while TV and radio legends Barry Cryer and Colin Sell will provide the entertainment. Auctions and other fundraising will help create a night to remember.

Today the Railway Benefit Fund is the only charity in the UK dedicated to helping active and retired railway worker and their families.

During 2007 the RBF helped over 700 people in need by providing grants for a huge range of necessities including educational costs for dependent children, emergency payments in times of financial distress or domestic crisis, mobility aids and help with funeral costs.

With the latest figures showing 74,588 people currently living on a rail pension of less than £50 per week, the charity also provides much needed financial assistance and support to railway pensioners across Britain.