Image by Hever Castle and Gardens
Visitors to Hever Castle over Christmas helped raise more than £14,000 for Make a Wish UK the charity that grants life-changing wishes for critically ill children
They were able donate to Make a Wish when prebooking tickets online and staff also donated during a preview event. For visits from 20 November to 3 January a total of £14,705.24 was raised for the charity. During the Christmas event, visitors witnessed the enchantment of the Castle, gardens and lake festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights.
In front of the Castle, there was also a chance to ride the gallopers on the carousel and a new attraction was a big wheel offering views across the grounds.
An immersive Christmas trail took visitors on a magical journey through the story of Pinocchio, starting with Geppetto’s workshop and ending as the Blue Fairy grants Pinocchio’s wish of becoming a ‘real boy’ with characters along the way.
Stephanie Witt, Director of Income & Engagement, Make-A-Wish UK said: After a 40% drop in our income last year and with the rising number of children in the UK who are living with critical illness, the support of the public has never been so important. So we’re incredibly grateful to Hever Castle and everyone who attended the Christmas event for their generous support in helping us light up the lives of children and their families at the darkest of times. Your generosity will help us grant the wishes of over five children and help them and their families create magical memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you.”
