Participants were welcomed to Cutler’s Hall for the closing event to the Master Cutler’s Challenge to showcase all the incredible fundraising that occurred over the year to raise over £115,000 for dementia care in Sheffield.
Each year, the newly appointed Master Cutler takes on the honour of leading the Master Cutler’s Challenge which has become one of the largest and most impactful fundraising campaigns in the region.
First established in 1624, the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire continues to champion local causes, with this year’s challenge raising an incredible £115,798 for Sheffield Hospitals Charity.
Over the past year, businesses and organisations across South Yorkshire have hosted an array of creative and community-driven events, from football tournaments and dog walks to giant games of Monopoly and rounders. All funds raised will support people living with dementia.
Philip Rodrigo, Master Cutler for 2024–2025, said:
“Sheffield Hospitals Charity has always been close to my heart. I’ve loved seeing the incredible creativity and generosity from businesses across our region throughout the challenge this year. Their support will make a lasting difference to those living with dementia and their families.”
Beth Crackles, CEO of Sheffield Hospitals Charity, added:
“Thank you so much to everyone who got involved and made this challenge such a huge success. The funds raised will make a real and lasting difference to people living with dementia across Sheffield.”
The evening had a wonderful soundtrack provided by musicians Joe Carnall, Ed Cosens and Gerard Fletcher performing from the balcony with songs from Joe's Musical, How Could I Forget - a love letter to Grandparents that delves into the impact of dementia.
The Master Cutler Phil Rodrigo revealed the Challenge's five awards for this year on the night. A special mention goes to the winners:
Master Cutler's Award: BBraun for taking a million steps for a challenge close to the Master Cutler's heart
Spirit of the Challenge Award: Outokumpu for their beautiful steel Christmas decorations
Most Creative Fundraiser Award: DLA Piper for their game of giant Sheffield Monopoly
Top Fundraiser Award: Meadowhall for their fantastic Red Shoe Walk
Best Event Award: Ovo Spaces for a brilliant Sports Day that included a 5k canoe race along the canal.
Check out a gallery of photography from the evening thanks to the kind support of Steel City Snapper at this link.
The video above features Master Cutler Phil Rodrigo's visit to the Brearley Wing at the Northern General Hospital, where many patients are living with dementia. In the video, we chat to Phil, as well as NHS colleagues on the wing, about the real impact that funds raised through the 2025 challenge will have on staff and patients.
Published: Friday 3rd of October 2025