A record number of people got into the Christmas spirit last weekend (Saturday 30 November) when Haven House Children’s Hospice kick-started its festive celebrations.

A crisp Winter’s day provided the perfect conditions for the hospice’s annual Christmas Wonderland with more than 800 people flooding through the gates to enjoy some festive fun. The hospice in Woodford-Green was decked with twinkling lights, snowflakes, Christmas trees and reindeers. 

Guests enjoyed a festive frenzy of gift stalls, tombola’s, raffle and tasty Winter warmers and sweet treats. They then had the chance to step into a Winter Wonderland through the hospice’s whimsical garden complete with snow, giant presents before meeting the man himself and his friendly elves in Santa’s Grotto.

To complete the day families enjoyed the petting corner with sheep, rabbits, hens and a donkey from Gemma’s Farm. The event featured a full day of entertainment including music from True Voices, Rock Choir and Islington Community Choir.

 

Events Fundraising Manager, Sophie Bragg, said: There was a lovely festive atmosphere at the hospice. We are absolutely over the moon at how well the event went, with the local community really coming out in force to show their support for Haven House.

Christmas is a magical time at the hospice, but it can be hard for our families. The support we get at Christmas and throughout the year is really appreciated and ensures that we can continue our vital work.

Haven House cares for around 400 seriously ill children and their families. It costs more than £4.2 million every year to provide the vital services, and yet only 19 per cent of this comes from the government. For the remainder, the charity must rely on the generosity of its supporters.

Christmas Wonderland raised an incredible £9,000 and the hospice would like to thank everyone who contributed and joined them for the start of a very busy Christmas Season.

Thank you to event sponsors Savills, Improve Your Smile Dental Practice and Hills of Woodford Toyota.