Bay Hospitals Charity sprinkled some Christmas magic across Morecambe Bay with its enchanting Light Up Christmas celebrations.
Families, friends, patients, volunteers, supporters, local people and colleagues gathered together for joyful Christmas lights switch-on events at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) sites.
The festivities began at Furness General Hospital (FGH) in Barrow on Tuesday 9 December, continued at Westmorland General Hospital (WGH) in Kendal on Wednesday 10 December, and concluded at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary (RLI) on Thursday 11 December.
At FGH, Furness Rotary Club, Askam Town Silver Band, Roose School Choir and St George’s School Choir performed and made the event incredibly special. It was a busy day for Santa, who later joined patients and visitors for the Christmas Tree Switch On. Despite the stormy weather, the lights sparkled perfectly thanks to young patient, Jack Lyle, who pressed the button right on cue.
The event at WGH was supported by the members of Kendal Rotary Club who kindly donated the beautiful Christmas tree. Patients, visitors and colleagues were treated to a stunning performance by the Kendal Operatic Society, filling the hospital with carols that had everyone singing along. Santa made another visit sharing the spirit of Christmas.
A Christmas tree switch-on at the RLI was a true celebration of the season. Bowerham School Choir filled the air with beautiful carols, creating a truly joyful atmosphere. This year, Lily pressed the big red button with both big brother George and Santa’s help to light up the tree. She did an amazing job and to top it off, Chaplain Ian Dewar delivered his Christmas message with his trademark energy, adding a touch of panto fun to the occasion. Walter the therapy dog, who everyone always loves to see, also joined the event.
Each event was filled with twinkling lights, well wishes from Santa and heartwarming Christmas carols, creating unforgettable moments for all who attended. The celebrations were completely free and open to everyone in the community, as well as patients and hospital teams. They brought a wonderful sense of joy and togetherness to the season.
Judith Read, Bay Hospitals Charity Manager, said: “Our Light Up Christmas events were all about joy and community spirit. They gave us the chance to make treasured memories and celebrate the season as one. We were thrilled to see so many people join us!”
Suzanne Lofthouse, Head of Charity and Fundraising for Bay Hospitals Charity, said: “We’d like to say a heart-felt ‘thank you’ to everyone who joined us and supported these magical events. Your presence and generosity helped us light up Christmas with warmth and festive cheer across our hospitals and communities. I’d also like to say a huge thank you to our Estates Team, Catering Team and Chaplaincy Team for their fantastic support in making the celebrations happen.”
Bay Hospitals Charity continues to raise funds to transform hospital environments, provide advanced equipment and deliver extra care beyond what the NHS can offer, thus making a real difference for patients and families.
Donations can be made to Bay Hospitals Charity at: Donate - Support our work | Bay Hospitals Charity