Christmas spirit sparkled in Otterspool as nearly 300 children and family members supported by Claire House Children’s Hospice stepped into a Winter Wonderland at The North Pole Experience.

From the moment families boarded the North Pole Express, excitement filled the air. Everyone had a fabulous time at the toy workshops, and the thrill of meeting Father Christmas brought pure joy to little faces. They heard a story from Mrs Claus, met Santa, and each child left the Elves’ Toy Shop with a special gift.

For Lindsey Pagett, bereaved mum of Elsie, who attended with sons Jesse and Toby, the experience was priceless. She said:

“We loved coming together as a family. It’s been great spending time together. Meeting Father Christmas was a highlight. The boys loved talking to him and getting a present from his Toy Shop. The whole experience has been magical.”

Thanks to the incredible generosity of Home Bargains, families enjoyed enchanting activities – from crafting snow teddies to gliding across an ice rink made accessible for wheelchairs, ensuring every child could join in the fun.

This has been an unforgettable day, full of magical memories that families will treasure forever,” said Hannah Shannon from Claire House. “Christmas is special for everyone, but for families who don’t know how many Christmases they’ll have together, it means the world. We are so grateful to everyone who made this day possible.”

Claire House supports nearly 500 families across Merseyside, Cheshire, and North Wales, both at its Liverpool site and Wirral hospice, as well as in the community. The hospice can only keep its doors open thanks to generous gifts from the public.

To find out how you can help make Christmas special for seriously and terminally ill babies, children and young adults this year, visit the website.

READ MORE: Father Completes 258-Mile Walk from London to Liverpool in Memory of Daughter