Quiz Raises ‘Really Big’ Amount for Hospice

Barnstaple's second annual 'Really Big Quiz' hosted by chartered accountants Simpkins Edwards raised over £3,000 for its chosen charity, North Devon Hospice.

36 teams competed in the light-hearted quiz at the Barnstaple Hotel on 9 November, which was won by The Acolytes – a team made up of friends from North Devon. The Brainy Bunch triumphed in a tiebreak over the 2010 reigning champions Graham's Gang from HSBC and were rewarded with a case of champagne as well as a trophy to commemorate their win.

The Really Big Quiz was supported by the Exeter Chiefs, who donated a framed shirt signed by the entire squad, VIP tickets for two and a training session with the Chiefs own trainer for an auction that took place on the night. Winger Matt Jess was present to lend his support to the teams and kick start the fundraising.

As well as the entry money from the quiz and the auction, a raffle helped to raise additional funds, bringing the total to over £3,000. All items were generously donated by businesses across North Devon.

"We really appreciate the efforts of everyone who entered the quiz and took part in the auction and raffle," said Jilly Watson, Partner at Simpkins Edwards' Barnstaple office. "It was a wonderful event, made even more special by the support of the Exeter Chiefs and all the other organisations who donated prizes this year. To be able to hand a cheque for more than £3,000 over to North Devon Hospice is fantastic."

Emma Lowe, from North Devon Hospice's fundraising team, said that the whole evening had been a huge success.

"It was fantastic to see so many teams, even two travelling up from Exeter, pitting their wits against each other in friendly competition.  A wonderful evening was had by all who came along," Emma remarked. "To raise more than £3,000 on the night is just incredible and we'd very much like to thank Simpkins Edwards for their hard work, as well as Exeter Chiefs and the many teams and local businesses who supported the event. The money raised will make a real difference to the lives of those supported by North Devon Hospice. We care for local people suffering from the impact of cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, but we can only do this thanks to the generosity of the community at events like this."