The Derbyshire Brain Game returned to Pride Park Stadium on Thursday 9th October, raising over £60,000 in support of Marie Curie. Almost 300 guests gathered for the black-tie quiz night, helping to fund expert care and support for people living with terminal illness and their families.
A highlight in the region’s charity calendar, The Derbyshire Brain Game continues to blend high-energy entertainment with meaningful fundraising. Held at the home of Derby County Football Club, this year’s event brought together business leaders, community figures, and long-time supporters for an evening of fine dining, fierce competition, and moving testimonies from those impacted by Marie Curie’s vital work.
Matthew Nickson, Marie Curie’s community fundraiser for Derbyshire, said: “The continued generosity and enthusiasm of everyone who attends The Derbyshire Brain Game is truly overwhelming.
“Every pound raised helps ensure no one faces end of life alone. We are incredibly grateful to all who contribute, especially our sponsors, donors, and volunteers. This year we have raised over £60,000, which will fund approximately 2,640 hours of specialist nursing care. With this year’s total, the event has now raised over £500,000 since its inception in 2012.”
All funds raised go directly to supporting Marie Curie’s range of services, including in-home nursing care, hospices, bereavement counselling, and a free information and support line, all of which provide comfort, dignity, and expert guidance to those navigating the challenges of terminal illness.
While the evening centres around fundraising, the quiz remains highly competitive. After seven tough rounds, Smith Partnership claimed victory and took home the winners’ trophy, a unique design created by Jowita, a Derby College student.
The Derbyshire Brain Game will return in 2026, with the date confirmed for Thursday 8th October, once again at Pride Park Stadium.
The Derbyshire Brain Game is organised entirely by a volunteer committee made up of local business professionals from companies such as PKF Smith Cooper, Work Wallet, Bowmer and Kirkland, The Red Olive Catering Co., Co-op Group, and Clowes Developments, along with passionate individuals dedicated to supporting Marie Curie’s mission.
