The Red Bench Project

31/08/2026

Finish off your bank holiday weekend at Hogarths South Shields who are currently fundraising for The Red Bench Project and today they have their big fun day filled with live music and at 2pm we’ll be there to play a few games of bingo and draw the raffle with great prizes including comedy tickets for The Customs House and a voucher for Sanddancer Clothing plus many more.

27/08/2026

The Mojitos playing the iconic Cavern Club in Liverpool. Not only are they are great band, but a great bunch of blokes too. They put on an incredible night to raise money and awareness for The Red Bench Project and they were amazing. The dance floor was full the whole night. If you can make this gig you’ll be in for a treat, if you can’t then keep your eyes peeled for a gig closer to home as you won’t be disappointed

23/08/2026

The reason The Red Bench Project works is down to the people. The people behind the scenes as well as the people who help and support what we do, from sharing our posts, to making donations, or choosing to go the extra mile. Last night was a case of the latter. After meeting with Sandra, The Mayor of Whitby, several months ago, she said she wanted to help get benches in Whitby, because sadly Whitby has had its fair share of losses too. And true to her word she has really got behind us, holding a civic event to help highlight and raise funds for her two chosen charities, WHISH Community and ourselves.

For me it is a real honour to be chosen because Whitby has some incredible charities and organisations who would benefit from being the Mayors chosen charity. So I really am honoured and privileged to be chosen and I will give it my all to the people of Whitby to prove that we are worthy of that trust shown to us and to help those who are struggling and need help, as well as linking up with and highlighting all of the amazing charities, services and groups there.

Last night was amazing. Not only did we meet some incredible people, but to be able to give them a brief outline of my story and what we do as a charity was a privilege. The response was truly humbling, so many people in that room have been touched by tragedy and to have them talk about that with me really is an honour, as I know it’s not an easy thing to do. To have them then say they will help and support us because they believe in what we do really is incredible. It makes it all worthwhile.

Sandra’s whole team really did put on an amazing night, the ballroom at The Royal Hotel, Whitby looked amazing, so many local businesses supported the event with an incredible buffet of fish, chips and of course scampi, as well as deserts. The prizes were unreal, just so many prizes, from bottles, to experiences, from stays at hotels to spa treatments, hampers and various other gifts. Our team won several too, though I think the main prize of the giant marrow was the highlight, so the fact that I won that one was pretty special hahaha.

Afterwards a few of us went outside to enjoy the incredible view of Whitby harbour and decompress after a really amazing night, for a few of us it was quite emotional too, so it was nice to just have 10 minutes to myself and gather my thoughts whilst listening to the waves.

A big thank you to my team for their help and support on the night. Tracy Beaton, Simon Flanagan, Rob Adamson, Christine Trotter, Clare Blunt and David O'Hagan.

I’ll be back in Whitby in a few weeks for another bit of fundraising and awareness that we are helping with and after last night I know we will be getting Red Benches in Whitby a whole lot sooner and that is down to the support of Sandra, The Mayor of Whitby and now a good friend of ours. Thank you Sandra, thank you to your incredible team, and thank you to everyone that supported Sandra’s big event in any way ❤️

23/08/2026

I didn’t realise anyone was recording my speech, a speech I didn’t know I was even doing until I got there…not that it would have made a difference as I never write anything and I never plan what I’m saying. In fact I’ve talked at several events where people have been to more than one and they comment on how it’s always different yet I always get my story or point across, yet if you asked me afterwards what I had even said I wouldn’t be able to tell you 🙈
It hit home with a lot of people here in Whitby, which is heartbreaking, but if more people opened up, if more people talked, then maybe we could stop it being such a regular occurrence. I hate talking about me, I hate talking about my story, but someone has to. It’s not for likes, it’s most definitely not for sympathy, it’s to show people that they are not alone. I can’t tell people that it’s ok to talk if I’m not prepared to do it myself. A big thank you to Sandra, The Mayor of Whitby for not only supporting me but for really championing The Red Bench Project the way that she is, she believes in what we are doing and her help and support really does mean the world to me.

22/08/2026

It’s a busy one today, starting of at The Longship in Hebburn for the annual AFVBC Summer BBQ which raises money for McMillan and Veterans for Veterans in Care. So if you are looking for something fun to do then pop along, there’s stalls there including Bede’s Helping Hands Food Bank and I believe even some characters like The Minnions.

Then we are heading down to Whitby for The Mayors event to raise money for WHISH Community and The Red Bench Project, where it will be good to meet more of the people of Whitby and tell them more about what we do as we plan towards getting benches placed there soon.

20/08/2026

The mind is such a funny thing. This week has been such a positive week for me, so many great things happening, yet I still feel off kilter, like depression is beating on my door trying to get in.

I know those warning signs now so it gives me a fighting chance, I can try and keep it at bay.

I feel for those who are struggling with those thoughts, who may not know the warning signs and how to control them, or at least get through them without acting on them. It’s not easy.

So my advice to you if you are reading this and it feels like I’m describing your thoughts. Don’t give up. They do pass. You can get through it, I promise.

Reach out to someone, anyone, but reach out because talking can help. If you don’t feel like you can talk to family or friends then talk to a stranger, be it one of the many groups out there, or even call the Samaritans, they will listen, I’m even a message away. I’m not a professional but I will certainly listen and help where I can, even if it’s just giving you some options and pointing you in the right direction.

This isn’t a sympathy post, it’s an advice post.

Like I say I’ve had so many positive things happen this week, I’ve taken delivery of 5 new benches that are going to be painted and then installed for The Red Bench Project. I’m in Whitby this weekend for a fundraiser with the Mayor of Whitby, which is incredible. I’ve had a great chat with someone about them helping with The Red Bench Project (more abut that soon), I’ve celebrated 10 years in a job I love, hosting the Quiz at The Maltings. Offers of more benches.

So many positives. Yet I still feel off.

Sitting on the bench at the beach the other day I was watching the waves and thinking I could happily just walk into the water and not come back out.

Now don’t worry, I’m not feeling suicidal, I’m honestly not. But sometimes when you feel off like this those thoughts do creep into your head, I get them often, it’s not the first time and it won’t be the last. You think how easy it would be, the loneliness would stop, my health issues would stop, my worries would stop, the daily struggle would stop.

But if they all stopped then how much would actually be worse. How many people would then not find the help and support needed for them to pick themselves up. How many people would that effect, my family, my friends (you may feel that they’d be better off without you but that honestly isn’t true). How many issues it would cause. I’m lucky that I have a reason to keep going that I can see, my charity. If you feel this way you may not feel like you have a reason to keep going, but I can guarantee that you do, even if you don’t realise or feel like you have.

These hard times are temporary, they will pass. You will get through them. You don’t have to do it alone. Please reach out if any of this feels like you. If it does then you can see that you clearly aren’t the only one struggling, you are not as alone as you feel. There is help and support out there, I’ll help you find the one that works for you, but I can’t do that if you struggle with your demons alone. Please reach out to someone, anyone.

18/08/2026

❤️📸 WE NEED YOUR HELP 🎨❤️
It’s nearly time to put together our 2027 Charity Calendar and we can’t do it without your incredible photos and artwork!

So we are looking for photos of any of our benches, maybe you sitting on them, maybe your workmates, your sports or quiz team or even if you volunteer or work for a north east charity, let’s share some love and let us promote you, hell, even your pets sitting on the benches, fun or serious, we love to see them all.

Sunsets, sunrises, rain, snow, anything goes. Lots of people, no people, it’s up to you. The best ones will feature on our 2027 Calendar.

We have about 1 month until we need to start designing our calendar and getting it off to print so people can order them in time for Christmas. So please use that month to send in your photos ❤️

So please tag anyone or share this with anyone that you think can take a good photo or do some amazing artwork (please no AI as we don’t want our benches having 6 legs or sprouting extra slats lol) or anyone that should be featured on our bench, local businesses and charities, nows your time to shine 😉
Here’s some for photos for inspiration ❤️
fans

15/08/2026

This is incredible news, our friends The Mojitos have an album coming out soon!

They did an incredible fundraiser for The Red Bench Project a few years ago, so I would love it if all of our followers could show them some love and help make their album a huge success as they truly deserve it. Even better, if you get the chance to see them live then go for it, after all, music is always best live 😉

We can’t wait to hear the album and have it blasting out

PRESS RELEASE

The Mojitos Announce New Album – Extraordinary Things

North East indie rock favourites The Mojitos are proud to announce the release of their brand-new album, Extraordinary Things.

Following years of writing, performing and connecting with audiences across the region and beyond, Extraordinary Things captures the band’s distinctive blend of melodic songwriting, heartfelt lyrics and timeless rock and roll influences.

The album showcases The Mojitos at their most confident and creative, bringing together songs inspired by everyday life, love, hope, memories and the remarkable moments hidden within ordinary experiences. Built on strong melodies, rich harmonies and genuine storytelling, Extraordinary Things reflects the band’s belief that there is something extraordinary to be found in all of us.

Frontman Alan Elliott said:

“These songs have been shaped by our experiences, the people we’ve met and the stories we’ve lived. The title Extraordinary Things comes from the idea that life’s biggest moments often arrive in the most unexpected ways. We’re incredibly proud of this collection of songs and can’t wait for people to hear it.”

The Mojitos have built a reputation as one of the North East’s most popular live acts, earning acclaim for their energetic performances, memorable original material and enduring connection with audiences. As winners of the Evening Chronicle Battle of the Bands and recording artists with Amity Records, the band continue to grow their loyal following while staying true to their roots.

Featuring a collection of new songs that celebrate life’s highs, lows and everything in between, Extraordinary Things represents an exciting new chapter for the band.

The album will be available on major streaming platforms, with further details on release dates, videos and live performances to be announced soon.

The Mojitos are:

* Alan Elliott – Vocals & Guitar
* Kevin Adamson – Drums
* Mark Smith – Keyboards & Vocals
* Jason Foster – Bass & Vocals

For media enquiries, interviews and booking information, please contact The Mojitos through their official social media channels.

About The Mojitos

The Mojitos are a Newcastle-based indie rock band known for their infectious melodies, honest songwriting and energetic live shows. Drawing inspiration from classic British songwriting traditions while maintaining a contemporary sound, the band continue to create music that resonates with audiences of all ages.

10/08/2026

It’s a busy day for The Red Bench Project, we are currently at the South Tyneside Parent Carer Forum Send Family Fun Day sharing a table with Bede’s Helping Hands Food Bank and working with Luna Blu NE, plus there’s loads to see and do including stalls for Tailored Leisure, Kooth, Your Voice Counts, The Toby Henderson Trust at The Autism Hub, One Academy and more.

Then tonight we will be at the launch of Andys Man Club new South Shields at Ignition at The Venue tonight 7-9pm, so any men that may be struggling, why not pop along, it could help

09/08/2026

This is why I’m so proud to come from South Shields. You often hear people from other places say that the people from the North East are so friendly and generous and ALWAYS give to others. Here we have a charity fundraising for another charity, even though that money could very easily be used by themselves to help them do more incredible work. Arts4Wellbeing have fundraised for several charities and we are lucky enough to be one of them. They raised enough money to be able to donate a bench to be placed somewhere in South Shields as they know the importance of our benches and how much they can help those who are struggling.

We have something planned that will be extra special too, but that will be top secret for now whilst we try and sort things.

We had to get this photo in front of their new mural, which has been created using bottle tops that were donated. There’ll be lots of our bottle tops on that display as we drank lots of pop (way more than we probably should) so that we could donate some.

Once again thank you to Raylee Lynn and her team, all of the service uses and everyone that helped raise the money for the bench, we are truly blown away by your generosity and support and we can’t wait to get your special bench placed in South Shields ❤️

Today was a very special day as we officially presented our fundraising cheque to Wayne from The Red Bench Project.

Wayne founded The Red Bench Project in 2023 with a simple but powerful vision: to place red benches at or near su***de hotspots, creating safe spaces where people can stop, gather their thoughts, reflect, and, hopefully, find a moment of calm when they need it most.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of everyone who supported our evening discos and fundraising events at Arts 4 Wellbeing, we are proud to have raised enough money to purchase a Red Bench in the name of Arts 4 Wellbeing.

As a charity, we know the importance of kindness, community, and looking out for one another. It fills us with pride to be able to support another organisation that is making such a meaningful difference to people’s lives.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, attended our events, and helped make this possible. Together, we are helping to create spaces of hope, compassion, and support.

💙 Thank you, Wayne, for the incredible work you are doing through The Red Bench Project

Love Arts 4 Wellbeing