Three darts giants will compete alongside the community of East Cowton in a friendly darts marathon at the Beeswing pub this March.
On Saturday the 1st of March, Simon ‘The Wizard’ Whitlock, his son Mason Whitlock, and Robert Thornton will join the community in a Sky Sports-sponsored charity event raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Since taking over the Beeswing in 2013, award-winning Publican, Beth Robinson has been a dedicated fundraiser for local and national charities. Her leadership has earned the pub and herself national recognition from Pub Aid and leading pub company, Punch Pubs & Co, for her commitment to the community through large-scale charity events.
When Beth learned about Macmillan’s plan to host a male-focused event to raise awareness for male cancers, she jumped into action. Within days, she had organised an exciting 12-hour darts marathon and, with the help of some industry peers, secured three high-profile names to join the cause. Together, they aim to raise funds, spread awareness, and champion men’s well-being in the community – something Beth is incredibly passionate about.
She said: “I’ve wanted to do an event of this scale for a really long time, it’s been spoken about before in the pub, but it’s a big ask to get people to play darts for 12 hours. One of our lovely regulars told me how, due to personal circumstances, he would have loved to have taken part this year, so it inspired me to get planning. Suddenly, we’re hosting a full day of events, and we’ve got some of darts’ biggest names joining us!”
Most will know of the Beeswing because of its renowned Cowtonbury festival, an annual event which takes place on the grounds of the pub, hosting live music acts with all proceeds going towards projects to enhance the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton – a place which holds a special place in Beth’s heart after her parents were cared for there.
Beth continued: “It’s amazing to celebrate the incredible work of Macmillan and other charities while having fun and raising money. I’ve worked closely with Macmillan for years and truly understand how vital this partnership is for our community.
“That’s why I want this event to be the biggest and best we’ve ever held at the Beeswing. We’re pulling out all the stops – expect an Ally Pally-style event with loads of family fun, drinks, entertainment, music, and, most importantly, awareness. This isn’t just a darts competition; it’s a chance to highlight men’s well-being, raise awareness of male-specific cancers, and encourage our male friends and family to start talking.”
The all-day event will begin with child-friendly activities and darts, a Macmillan-inspired coffee morning, and afternoon teas, followed by a thrilling darts competition which will see the community of Northallerton face off against Simon, Mason and Robert.
“It would be great to have as many people join us as possible; it’s fun for everyone to enjoy, not just those who are big darts fans like me,” Beth expressed. “As always, local businesses have already blown me away with their support and contributions, and it’s set to be an incredible day. The countdown is well and truly on!”
It has been confirmed that Simon and Mason will be at the pub from 3 to 6 pm, with Robert arriving at 7 pm.
Beth and the team are regularly updating the pub’s socials about the upcoming event and are encouraging anybody who wishes to take part to get in touch.
