Play to the Crowd – the arts and education charity that runs Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers – has announced that its corporate Member, The Wykeham Arms, has pledged to continue to support the charity’s work through a new environmentally friendly initiative that promotes sustainability while supporting local charitable organisations.
The city centre pub will be giving customers the option of enjoying chilled still or sparkling filtered water in refillable bottles, in a bid to reduce its reliance on single use plastic and glass items and in exchange for a small discretionary donation of £1 – with proceeds going directly to three local arts and heritage organisations including Play to the Crowd.
The initiative reflects the pub’s commitment to sustainability and support for the local community; plus, a growing effort worldwide by individuals and organisation to reduce and reuse; lessen waste to landfill, lower carbon footprints and prevent environmental damage.
The Kingsgate Street pub first pledged to support the charity’s work in 2023 through sales of its famous homemade Wyk Pie – with 25p from each sale donated to Play to the Crowd. That scheme ended in November 2024, having raised over £2,000 for the charity, and this new initiative marks the pub’s ongoing efforts to support our work.
Licensee of The Wykeham Arms, and finalist for the British Institute of Innkeeping Licensee of the Year Award, Jon Howard, said: ‘We are delighted to continue our support for Play to the Crowd and the work that they do through this new initiative.
‘For us, every bottle refill represents both a small step toward preserving our planet and a tangible contribution to preserving our community’s culture and history. We’re proud to offer an eco-conscious alternative that also supports the heart of Winchester.’
Becca Moore, Fundraising Manager, said: ‘We’re so pleased to be part of this brilliant initiative. It’s a simple idea with a big impact – better for the planet and a real boost for local charities like ours. Huge thanks to the team at The Wykeham Arms for continuing to back our work in such a thoughtful and practical way.’
The Wykeham Arms hopes by encouraging the use of refillable bottles, its initiative will reduce the waste associated with single-use containers at a time when plastic pollution and excessive glass production are key concerns; and as more customers choose the refillable option, other hospitality venues will follow suit, offering alternatives to single-use items.
Proceeds from the initiative will also go towards supporting Winchester Cathedral and Hampshire Heritage Trust.
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