A local charity is to benefit from an innovative technology event this weekend, following the support of local businesses.
Earlier this month, the inaugural Newcastle Coding Challenge, a partnership between bespoke software development consultancy Scott Logic, and Newcastle University Computing and Technology Society (NUCATS) broke records, with the winning participants making a virtual profit of more than £35,000 after competing with other teams to create the most successful share-buying algorithm.
Now, NUCATS is hosting its own event, a 24-hour charity gameathon on Saturday and Sunday (March 5th-6th), in aid of theWillow Burn hospice, with support from local businesses including Scott Logic.
Chris McQueen of NUCATS explained: “The Coding Challenge was fantastic and the partnership with Scott Logic led us to asking for their support with our next event, which is one close to our hearts, and it should be a lot of fun.
“We’re expecting around 120 gamers to come along and we’ll be keeping them entertained with dozens of consoles, hundreds of games and a load of giveaways, competitions, intra-event tournaments, a raffle, a games quiz and even a bake sale to keep their energy up over the 24 hours.”
NUCATS own team is hoping to raise at least £1,500 for the Derwentside-based hospice, but organisers are encouraging other participants to fundraise too.
Chris continued: “The volunteers at Willow Burn pour their souls into looking after terminally ill patients through thick and thin, which is why we’re fundraising for them through this event.
“Support from businesses such as Scott Logic, which is providing prizes including a smartwatch, a Steam gaming controller and Amazon vouchers, is absolutely incredible and helps elevate the event to be a really special occasion for the gamers joining us.
“This allows us to concentrate our efforts on fundraising as much as possible on the day, and hosting one of the biggest events on campus.”
Head to Facebook where NUCATS has a video to give people further information about the event. Or to sponsor NUCATS, visit the team’s JustGiving page.