Prancer and Jingles spread reindeer cheer at Woodpeckers care home charity afternoon

More than 250 people enjoyed a taste of Christmas magic as a Woodpeckers in the New Forest held a ‘meet the reindeer’ afternoon in aid of young carers’ charity Honeypot.

Residents and staff at Woodpeckers care home in Brockenhurst welcomed children from nearby Brockenhurst Primary School and the village pre-school, plus friends, neighbours and community contacts.

They took the chance to meet special reindeer guests Prancer and Jingles as well as Santa and a party of elves, all taking time out from their traditionally busy season.

Visitors also played a ‘Pick Rudolph’s Nose’ game, sampled and bought seasonal gifts at a series of craft stalls and took part in a raffle for prizes donated by New Forest businesses.

The final amount raised for Honeypot will be more than £1,200.

Sian Harris, Companionship Team Member, said: “It was the second year we have held a ‘meet the reindeer’ afternoon. Once again, we had a huge number of visitors, with children flooding in to see the reindeer. Word had clearly spread in the local area. It was such a popular event.”

Woodpeckers resident June Farrow, who helped out on one of the craft stalls, said: “I loved seeing the children come and enjoy themselves. It made me feel happy and bubbly as well.”

After the event, staff from the home, including Customer Support Adviser Lynne Ray, Gardener Chris Marsh and Home Manager Priya Joseph extended the reach of the raffle by taking a stall along to the community Christmas lights switch-on in Brockenhurst.

Viv Carter, Community Fundraising Manager at Honeypot, said: “The enthusiasm and energy from everyone at Woodpeckers is overwhelming.

“We are so happy to have their support. They have really driven their fundraising for us with an understanding of the impact it has.

“Their support will enable young carers aged five to 12 to take a break from caring and have fun being a child at Honeypot House in the New Forest.”

Thank you to all the businesses who donated raffle prizes. Marchwood Candles, Burley Wagon Rides, Burley Fudge, Fitness Evolution, Quirky Crafts and Messy Kate.