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Countdown to Christmas begins as hospital switches on its festive lights

Countdown to Christmas begins as hospital switches on its festive lights

Dudley’s Russells Hall Hospital kicked off the festive season this week with its annual Christmas lights switch-on and market, spreading holiday cheer to staff, patients, and the local community.

The lights were switched on today by group chief executive Diane Wake, the Dudley Group NHS Charity mascot, Aati the Friendly Fox, and patient, Loraya Barnes, illuminating the hospital throughout December. The Christmas tree, a symbol of the season, was generously donated by Dudley Group NHS Charity along with the Trust’s Private Finance Initiative partners, Mitie and Summit Healthcare.

Visitors were encouraged to support local businesses at the hospital’s Christmas market, which featured around a dozen stalls offering baked goods, handmade jewellery, sweets, candles, and more.

Festive music filled the air as students from Caslon Primary School, Jesson’s CofE Primary, Thorns Primary School, St Mark’s CofE Primary, and Blowers Green Primary performed carols and Christmas hits, from traditional classics like Silent Night to modern favourites. Residents from Sedgley Court Care Home also joined in, spreading holiday cheer through song to staff and visitors alike.

Adding a dynamic flair to the celebrations, children from Infinity School of Dance performed dazzling dance routines to seasonal favourites, delighting everyone in attendance.

Diane Wake, group chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re thrilled that our Christmas light-switch on and market was a joyful success, both for our charity and the local businesses and schools who took part.
“Celebrating the festive season and bringing joy to our patients, visitors, and staff is a priority, and this event was just the beginning of our December festivities.”

The day also featured a charity challenge hosted by one of the Charity’s partners, the Village Hotel Dudley, where participants completed a 55-mile static bike ride from London to Brighton in just five hours. A tombola and Christmas goods sale further contributed to fundraising efforts, helping raise nearly £1,000 for the Dudley Group NHS Charity.

If you would like to know more about the charity and fundraising opportunities, please visit www.dgnhscharity.org.