Homes across Bristol are lighting up for Christmas in aid of the city’s children’s hospital – but the youngsters who are actually in the hospital itself aren’t going to miss out on the festive illuminations, thanks to a local construction firm.
The Warmley-based Shield Services Group happen to have erected a large set of scaffolding on a building opposite the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children for a major conversion project, so realised they had an ideal opportunity to bring some Christmas cheer to the youngsters stuck in hospital across the road.
And they got Bristol football legend and current Swindon Town manager Ian Holloway to do the honours for a big switch-on, with a JustGiving page set up for people to donate to the Grand Appeal’s Christmas lights fundraiser.
The lights will stay on throughout the Christmas period, making it probably one of the biggest single set of Christmas lights in the city this year. “We are incredibly grateful to Shield Services Group for their generosity and creativity in supporting the young patients and families at Bristol Children’s Hospital,” said Kate Jones, from The Grand Appeal.
“This spectacular light display is a shining example of how the local community comes together to spread joy and hope during the festive season, while raising vital funds that help The Grand Appeal continue its work,” she added.
“The Grand Appeal funds life-saving equipment and vital research and provides family accommodation and support services to enhance the lives of patients at Bristol Children’s Hospital and their families.” she added.
Shield Services Group’s chairman Luke House was on hand to make sure all the bulbs worked before Ian Holloway did the big switch-on. “At Shield, supporting local charities is really important to us and this year we wanted to use our scaffolding expertise as a way of bringing joy to families going through a tough time,” he said.
“Raising money for The Grand Appeal, which does incredible work for the hospital and its patients is a bonus, and we’re proud to play a small role in making this Christmas brighter for the children and families at Bristol Children’s Hospital,” added Mr House.
For a full list of the everyday homes across Bristol transformed by Christmas lights this year, click here.