Foundation’s celebrations given Royal seal of approval
for everything that you’re doing.
"I know that it’s not easy at the moment, but I’m sure there will be some positive takeaways that you can utilise in the future.
“The Foundation is always flexible to the needs of the community and that is what makes it incredibly special, and already you are picking up on issues that are current and right now.
"I know the Foundation will always be there for the community and for those needs.”
Former Sunderland AFC chairman and Foundation of Light founder Sir Bob Murray CBE reflected on opening the Beacon.
He commented: “That was a special day in my life.
"Big prizes don’t come easy and that was a big prize.
"It’s such a unique building and charity, (and it is) on such a vast scale.
“It (the Beacon) was 10 years in the making and now it offers 7,000 people a week a beacon of hope.
“I’m more excited about the future – we haven’t really got going since we got in there because of what the world is going through, but we’re looking to the future under Lesley’s leadership."
Sunderland AFC Ladies captain Keira Ramshaw was spotted by the Foundation at the age of seven added: “They’ve immensely helped me in my career, whether it’s been on the pitch or off the pitch.
"They’ve helped with my teamwork skills and confidence.
“The Foundation has helped to provide me with a building block of how to conduct myself in and out of sport."
Last night, landmarks across Sunderland including Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire, Keel Square, Fulwell Mill and Seaburn Lighthouse joined the charity’s home, the Beacon of Light, in shining red and white to mark the special day.