The youngsters at Derian House had a ball when they were visited by two groups of special guests just in time for Christmas.
Not only were they entranced by the cast of Blackburn Empire Theatre’s Cinderella, but were also paid a visit by the boys of Bolton Wanderers football team – all in one day!
Prince Charming, Buttons, and Dandini brought smiles and laughter to children and staff on Tuesday morning (20 December) as they put on a magic show and got everyone up for a special dance performance.
Ian Holmes, Marketing Manager at Blackburn Empire Theatre, said: “Derian House is a brilliant hospice and an important cause right in the heart of Lancashire. We have people from all over the country performing in the pantomime – they were so keen to come to Derian House to bring a bit of panto magic to the hospice before Christmas.”
The day became even more magical as footballers from the first team the Bolton Wanderers arrived at Derian House in the afternoon. The group took a tour of the hospice, took photos, and handed out Christmas presents to the young people.
Footballers James Trafford, Conor Bradley, and MJ Williams were even beaten at a game of Fifa on the Xbox by 22-year-old Leo Cliffe who visits the hospice.
Ricardo Santos, Captain of Bolton Wanderers, said: “It was great to see the young people and be able to put a smile on their faces. We love show our local community that we care and they are all part of the football family.”
Katie McNally, Wellbeing and Play Team Leader at Derian House, said: “It was great to see the young people’s faces with not just one, but two special guest appearances at the hospice all in one day.
“We’re so grateful to the cast of Cinderella and of the Bolton Wanderers for thinking of Derian House this Christmas. From everyone here, we’d like to say a huge thank you.”
Derian House Children’s Hospice cares for more than 450 children and young people with life-limiting conditions, as well as their families. The Chorley-based charity costs £5.7million to run every year, and only receives a small percentage of this from funding.
