It has been a busy time at the Hospice as we prepare for Christmas – with visitors dropping in and playing Santa!

The cast of the pantomime at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre called in and did an impromptu performance for our Day Unit patients, after meeting youngsters in Brian House.

A huge thank you to the cast, who made the trip in full costume between performances and really made us smile.

Earlier in the day a delivery of toys arrived from Real Radio – the result of a listener appeal in the run-up to Christmas. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed.

Brian House has already benefitted from kind donations of toys from itv’s Daybreak Toy Box appeal, from Rock FM, from All in One Property Maintenance and from several individuals.

The entire Blackpool FC squad visited us and made some very special memories for our Brian House youngsters (and one or two staff members!).

A film crew from Granada spent half a day at Brian House as part of our involvement in the itv Text Santa appeal, and we have also featured on a UK-wide BBC radio programme, talking about the Hospice in the run-up to Christmas. 

The Gazette – our partner in the current Hospice Heroes appeal – has ensured that we stay in the news as we push towards our £200,000 target. Their support has been fantastic.

The choirs from AKS Lytham and from Montgomery School have also visited Trinity and performed Christmas songs and carols in our Chapel.

Staff and patients really appreciate the hard work put into each performance; it has been a wonderful way to start Christmas.

Once again we have been bowled over by the generosity of the Fylde Coast community – thank you each and every one for your time, your donations and your good wishes.

Season’s greetings!