Santa Claus delivers a festive boost to Bluebell Wood

The amazing £3,250 donation matched the sum contributed by backers of  Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice’s Lapland Appeal, which helped to fund a Christmas party for children and their families.

A message was sent to the North Anston charity with the cheque, reading: “A little elf told me about your Lapland appeal.

“Your positive attitude helping to make memories for well-deserving children's lives with laughter and love is brilliant.

“Although we don't really use money here, Rudolph managed to fly one of my helpful little elves to the nearest bureau-de-change and convert some of my magic gold dust into sterling, matching the £3,250 you've raised so far.”

Seasonal visits from stars from Rotherham United and Sheffield Wednesday brought smiles and presents to children at the hospice but the Millers heroes were upstaged by another figure in red-and-white — Santa Claus.

The festive favourite brought his reindeer along to the North Anston charity to meet the children and gather some last-minute gift requests.

Santa’s visit was funded by hospice supporters donating £1 for every “virtual mile” between the hospice and Lapland, amounting to £2,078, but the total actually topped £6,500.

Children met live reindeers, saw falling snow, met Santa in his grotto, ate mince pies and took part in plenty of Christmas activities.

All children and siblings currently being supported by Bluebell Wood have also received a Toys ‘R’ Us or Love to Shop vouchers.

Claire Rintoul, Chief Executive at Bluebell Wood, said: “We've been completely overwhelmed by the amount of support we have received, which has seen us complete several journeys between Sheffield and Lapland.

“Thanks so much to everybody who has supported us, this gives us even more opportunities to create amazing memories for our children and their families.”  

Amanda Steele, who used Bluebell Wood’s end of life services, said: “What an amazing day for me and my children.

“We feel so privileged to be part of Bluebell Wood and without our boy Roman, we would never have known that such a wonderful place was available for families just like mine.

“Santa, reindeers, crafts and lots of love and laughter — it was like having Christmas with Roman as we know he was there in spirit. Thank you so much.”

Meanwhile, Millers and Owls stars took time out from their busy Christmas fixture list to visit their fans, have a tour of the facilities and hand over tom presents.

Ms Rintoul added: “Our children, young adults and their families love moments like this.”

Rotherham defender Stephen Kelly said: “The facilities here are just brilliant, Bluebell Wood amazing,the children clearly love it and it's phenomenal to think this is all provided through a charity.

“It’s been an overwhelming visit but great to come along and meet the children and families.”