We’re joining in with the festive community spirit at Wellington’s Christmas lights switch-on and we’re asking for volunteers to help us.

We need volunteers to step forward and join our ‘bucket brigade’ of street collectors on the same day as the town council hosts its Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday 25 November.

Support

Bucket collections play a vital role in raising funds for our hospice which cares for local families living with incurable illness across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Mid Wales.

Tracie Harrison, Director of Income Generation at the hospice said: “We’re really excited to be amongst members of the public who will be enjoying the spirit of Christmas in Wellington. This is our first flagship collection day in many years and we’re on the look-out for more volunteers to come forward and support us.”

“Our volunteers give invaluable support and have many skills and talents which all make such a difference and help towards the care we provide to our patients, their families and friends and carers, 365 days a year,” Tracie said.

Community

The Wellington Christmas lights switch-on, organised by the town council, starts at 2pm with the grand illumination taking place at 5pm by the Mayor of Wellington.

With activities happening at All Saints Church, All Saints Parish Centre and Wellington Market Square, members of the public will be able to meet Santa in his grotto, watch a Silly Santa Science Show as well as listen to music from BBC Radio Shropshire DJ, Shuttsie.

The community spirit will continue throughout the weekend at our hospice in Apley, with seasonal stalls and festive entertainment taking place at our Christmas fayre.

Volunteering

Along with the opportunity to join our hospice bucket brigade, various other volunteer roles include becoming a super sorter and till maestro in retail; supporting the upkeep of the gardens across our two hospice sites in Shrewsbury and Telford; welcoming patients and visitors through the doors at reception to being a friendly van drivers’ mate.

All the care provided by our hospice to thousands of people each year is only possible thanks to the generous support we receive from the communities we serve.

As a completely independent charity, we have to raise £2 for every £3 we spend on providing care and support free of charge.

If you would like to join our bucket brigade and can offer your support on Saturday 25 November in Wellington, please call our fundraising team on 01952 221 351 or email: fundraising@severnhospice.org.uk