Patients celebrate Christmas with special event

Patients at Exeter Community Hospital in Whipton were treated to a Christmas lights switch-on, carol singing, mince pies and a visit from Santa Claus and two snowmen fresh from the North Pole at a special event on Thursday (17 December).

The event was the climax of a team building day for the hospital’s facilities, domestic and catering staff.

Earlier, the staff got stuck in by clearing the inner courtyard garden area at the hospital, making decorations and putting up a Christmas tree with lights.

Patients and relatives watched from the courtyard and ward area as a 30-strong choir from St Nicholas Catholic Primary School sang carols around the tree.

Santa Claus gave presents to the patients and children while there were mince pies, Christmas cake and drinks for all.

Jayne Bevan, facilities manager for the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust, thanked the staff for organising the event and donating gifts and sweets to the patients and children.

She also thanked the many organisations and businesses who made donations or sponsored items, including the League of Friends, St Bridget Nurseries, The Anchor Inn at Sidmouth, MJ Baker Foodservice, Cornwall Foods, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Homebase and True Traders.

Jayne said: “The event was a wonderful start to the festive season and one that was appreciated by all concerned.

“The children were delightful and in good voice, which gave a lot of pleasure and Christmas cheer to our patients, relatives and staff.

“We hope it brought a little joy at a difficult time when I am sure patients would much rather be at home with their loved ones than in hospital.

“The staff really enjoyed organising and being part of the event and we hope this will become a regular day in years to come.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to all those who supported the event, without whom it would not have been possible.”