A sea of crimson suits flooded the Lancashire countryside last weekend as a record-breaking 1,959 Santas completed the annual Jingle All the Way charity walk, creating an unforgettable spectacle while raising vital funds for Derian House Children's Hospice.
Festival of Festive Fundraising
The event on Saturday, November 8 witnessed the largest turnout in its 13-year history, with participants walking the 15-mile route from Chorley town centre to the summit of Rivington Pike and back. The previous record was shattered as merry fundraisers donned their red suits and white beards for the beloved community tradition.
Before the walk began, the crowd received a heart-warming send-off from nine-year-old Riziah Moazzeny, who has been using Derian House's services for seven years. "I was super excited," she confessed. "It was scary speaking in front of so many Santas for the first time, but it was also nice to see them raise so much money for Derian House so that all the children can have fun and make memories together."
Community Comes Together for Vital Cause
The festive procession attracted support from local celebrities and politicians alike, including Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle, BBC Radio Lancashire presenter Steve Royle, and Leigh Leopards star Josh Charnley. Their presence helped amplify the event's message and community spirit.
This year's efforts have already generated £41,101 for Derian House, with additional donations expected in the coming weeks. The fundraising achievement marks another milestone for the event, which has now raised more than £300,000 for the hospice since it began in 2012.
Neil Hailwood, a Chorley businessman and Derian House ambassador who founded Jingle All the Way, reflected on the event's growth: "What an incredible time we had. The event has continued to grow in popularity and this year saw a record number taking part with 1,959 Santas completing the walk."
Legacy of Compassion and Community
Hailwood established the walk in 2012 in memory of a close friend's son who tragically passed away at a young age. "Inspired by a very brave young man who brought joy with his cheeky smile, my aim has always been to try to raise much needed money and awareness around the amazing work that Derian House Children's Hospice does every day," he explained.
The event's growth represents a dramatic increase from the original 150 participants who first took part 13 years ago. Mick Croskery, head of income generation at Derian House, expressed his gratitude: "What a record - thank you to every single Santa who helped us in this year's Jingle all the Way. It just gets bigger and better each year!"
The funds raised are particularly crucial given that care is free for families, but it costs £6 million to run services at Derian House annually. Only 30p in every £1 comes from statutory sources, making community fundraising events like Jingle All the Way essential for the hospice's survival.
Derian House, based in Chorley, Lancashire, provides care for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West, helping them create precious memories during challenging times.
