The grounds of East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) in Milton were transformed into a scene of festive enchantment for a special Winter Wonderland event designed for the families it supports.
A Magical Day of Festive Fun
Families were welcomed by the sound of choir singers performing carols, setting the tone for a day filled with seasonal magic. The event boasted a wide array of attractions to delight visitors of all ages. Twinkling lights, live music, and visits from Shetland ponies and donkeys created a joyful atmosphere. Young guests could have their faces painted, enjoy magic and balloon modelling, and test their aim with a snowball-throwing game.
One of the most anticipated highlights was a visit to Santa's Grotto, where children could share their Christmas wishes. Another crowd-pleaser was the classic party game 'pin the red nose on Rudolph'. For sustenance, a feast of festive food was on offer, ensuring no one went hungry amidst the fun.
Spectacular Sights and Team Effort
As dusk fell, the event took on a new dimension with a stunning laser light show. Festive images were projected onto the hospice building in time with music, providing a breathtaking spectacle. The event also offered plentiful photo opportunities, including a beautiful wooden sleigh crafted by volunteers Graham Shipley and Mick Housden for a previous year.
This year, with help from Stephen Watts, the same creative duo built an impressive two-dimensional train with carriages. Children could illuminate it by pressing a button. Volunteers dressed as popular characters like Captain America, Elsa from Frozen, and Spider-Gwen also posed for pictures with delighted children.
Ceri Dobson, EACH's Groups and Events Co-ordinator at Milton, expressed her delight at the event's success. "We had a fantastic time and were delighted with the way things went," she said. "We wanted to pull out the stops and make it bigger than ever, and hopefully families enjoyed the experience and left feeling suitably festive."
Creating Moments of Happiness
Ceri emphasised the core purpose of the gathering: "An event of this nature is all about creating moments of happiness for those receiving our care and support. Winter Wonderland gives children a chance to simply be children - laughing and enjoying the magic of the season in a safe, welcoming environment."
She extended heartfelt thanks to the large team that made the event possible, including EACH staff and volunteers. Ceri also acknowledged generous community support from individuals and companies who offered their services free of charge or at heavily discounted rates. Key contributors named were:
- Simon Mackinder from Mack Productions
- Make a Smile Foundation - Cambridge Chapter
- Andrew Jeffrey from Cambridge Party Heroes
- Julie Knott, Charlotte Knott, Jessica Knott, Reggie Herron, Amy Dawson and Stephanie Moss for providing the ponies.
- St Ives Musical Theatre Choir, Simply Wed, Georgia's Face Paints, Harvinii the Magician and Miniature Donkeys for Wellbeing.
The Winter Wonderland successfully built on the triumph of previous years, delivering a memorable and heart-warming day that sparkled with community spirit and festive cheer for the families of EACH.
