A host of Christmas festivities are set to take place at Harrogate Hospital again this year - including a visit from Father Christmas himself.
Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity (HHCC) have announced a number of upcoming fundraising events during the festive period, including an outdoor pop-up market, the Christmas tree light switch on and a letter from Father Christmas.
HHCC events raise funds for specialist equipment, training and services to help enhance treatment and facilities for all departments at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT).
Outdoor Pop up Christmas Market
HHCC's annual Outdoor Pop up Christmas Market returns on Sunday 24th November with tickets charged at £1.50 per child, whilst under 3's go free.
This year’s market is open from 10am-3pm at Harrogate Railway Athletic Football Club.
A spokesperson for the charity said:
"Get in the seasonal spirit this year with live music, a standout selection of handpicked stalls to find that perfect Christmas gift, an Elf Hunt, food and drink vendors, and of course the chance to meet Father Christmas himself in his grotto."
Get your tickets for the Outdoor Christmas Market here.
Letter from Father Christmas
HHCC’s Letters from Father Christmas is back!
Father Christmas and his elves have their pens and stamps ready for responding to children and young people this Christmas.
Each envelope includes a personalised letter, a North Pole Official Certificate and activity sheets.
There is also an option, for those who can, to donate and raise vital funds to benefit services across the HDFT footprint.
Entries close on Sunday 8th December to ensure your letter arrives before Christmas Eve.
To request a letter from Father Christmas, complete the online booking form here.
Harrogate District Hospital Christmas Tree Light Switch On
The annual Harrogate District Hospital (HDH) Christmas Tree Light Switch On is taking place on Thursday 28th November from 12pm-1pm.
This event welcomes St. Roberts Catholic Primary School who will sing festive carols and switch the Christmas lights on at the front of Harrogate Hospital.
A spokesperson for HHCC said:
"It's an opportunity to bring some seasonal cheer to our staff patients and service users at the hospital.
"If you're passing by, don’t hesitate to stop by to enjoy the festive carols.
"During the festive season, many individuals feel a sense of empathy towards those who visit hospital, whether as patients, service users or colleagues.
"If you're considering making a gift in kind donation, please contact the HHCC and Volunteer Team via email or telephone."
Visit from Father Christmas
On Tuesday 17th December, Father Christmas will visit Woodlands Ward and the Special Care Baby Unit at Harrogate District Hospital to spread some festive joy straight from the North Pole.
Thanks to a generous donation from the local Vinyl Sessions group, which supports HHCC, Father Christmas will be making a special appearance for the children and young people who are staying in hospital over the festive period.
If you like to support HHCC in any way through their upcoming events, head to the HHCC website or contact the HHCC and volunteer team on 01423 557408 or by emailing hdft.hhcc@nhs.net