We are thrilled to announce the remarkable success of our annual Charity Santa’s Grotto at our garden centre in Neston. This heartwarming event, organised in collaboration with The Hospice of the Good Shepherd, has not only brought festive cheer to our visitors but has also raised an impressive £38,897.86 for this essential local charity.
Our Charity Santa’s Grotto was open from Saturday, November 30, 2024, through Monday, December 23, 2024. Due to overwhelming interest, all slots were fully booked by December 13th, showcasing the strong community support and enthusiasm for this cherished event.
The grotto was skillfully crafted by our in-store team of elves at Gordale, who dedicated countless hours to ensure every detail exuded holiday spirit. Once the magical space was completed, it was handed over to the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, who staffed it with dedicated volunteers. Their commitment and passion helped create an inviting atmosphere for families to enjoy. Every penny from ticket sales was donated to the charity, ensuring that all proceeds directly supported those in need.
As a cherished part of the community, we take pride in providing a welcoming coffee shop with homemade treats, ample free parking for over 500 cars, and a strong dedication to local causes. The Charity Grotto played a crucial role in our Gordale Gives Back campaign, aimed at supporting the community during the festive season. Additionally, our friendly Gordale team organised a collection for the local food bank, further extending our commitment to helping those less fortunate.
Peter Nicholson, Managing Director of Gordale Garden Centre, shared his gratitude: “We are proud to host the Charity Santa’s Grotto at Gordale, which continues to be a beloved event. For many families, it has become an annual tradition, offering a magical experience while supporting a local charity during this season of goodwill. The joy on the children’s faces as they meet Santa is truly priceless.” Sam Eastwood, Community and Events Fundraiser at Hospice of the Good Shepherd, expressed her appreciation, noting: “The funds raised will greatly benefit our patients and their families. We sincerely thank Gordale, our volunteers, and everyone who visited, for their generosity and support.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our wonderful customers who visited the grotto and contributed to this phenomenal amount; we couldn’t have achieved it without your support! Your participation not only made the event a success but also brought hope and joy to many in our community. We look forward to welcoming you back next year for another unforgettable experience filled with Christmas magic and goodwill.
