Santa and his helpers welcomed special guests Hamish Scott and Olivia Chang Clarke from the spectacular Nutcracker at Birmingham Hippodrome – who pirouetted through the charity’s Selly Oak hospice as a special treat for the children and their families.
They also joined a special countdown for the big annual Christmas lights switch-on at the hospice which provides vital care for seriously ill children.
Volunteers Manager Janine Miller, from Acorns Children’s Hospice, said: “Christmas is such a special time here at Acorns, and we’ve been busy baking the mince pies and making hot chocolate and treats to welcome Santa, the children and families and our friends from Birmingham Royal Ballet.
“Not only is this a magical event with all the festive trimmings, it also helps create precious memories for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and their families that they’ll never forget.”
Santa’s grotto, a harpist and a festive VR experience were also highlights during the evening, along with performances from the Acorns Singers and the Makaton Choir.
Paul Reeve, from Birmingham Royal Ballet, said: “It was an absolute pleasure and privilege for Birmingham Royal Ballet to be able to bring a little bit of Nutcracker magic to Acorns Children's Hospice's Christmas festivities.
“The opportunity to visit and talk with the children, their families and the wonderful Acorns team has become an annual event in our own Christmas season, which the company and our dancers look forward to hugely."
Every family deserves the chance to create unforgettable memories with their child, no matter how short their time together.
Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support that allows their families to make the most of each precious moment.
In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.
This vital gift of care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.
Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.
Give the gift of Acorns care and support for seriously ill children and their families this Christmas. Visit www.acorns.org.uk/Christmas