Christmas comes to local hospitals as festive lights are switched-on

Staff at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) are getting into the spirit as Christmas lights were switched on at the Trust’s three main sites this week.

Leading the festive-fun, Montagu Hospital in Mexborough was visited by pupils, and their parents, from St John’s School, who sang carols to patients and staff. With favourites like ‘Silent Night’ and ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ performed, Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board, was on-hand to officially illuminate the hospital’s Xmas decorations.

Speaking about the seasonal occasion, Suzy said: ”We are very grateful to the pupils for serenading us and launching the Christmas festivities at Montagu.

Christmas marks the birth of a child, Jesus Christ; the Santa tradition tells us Christmas is all about children. We deliver lots of babies in our Trust so it is wholly appropriate for our local school pupils to help us celebrate. I wish our patients and their visitors a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.”

Following later in the week, Bassetlaw Hospital found the yuletide spirit, unveiling decorations of their own with the help of local youngsters.

Students from Norbridge Academy gathered to sing festive carols and recite prayers with the Trust’s Chaplain next to the hospital’s Christmas tree accompanied by parents, staff and members of the public. This was later followed by a short ceremony at the chapel, followed by more carolling.

Karen Barnard, Director of People and Organisational Development, led the big count-down to the switch-on, speaking after she said: “This is the first time I have attended this event at Bassetlaw Hospital and I have to say how fantastic it was. I also want to thank pupils from Norbridge Academy who came to carol with us – what a talented bunch they are!”

Finally, staff at Doncaster Royal Infirmary braved the wintery downpour on Wednesday night (5 December), as students from Park Primary School completed the Trust’s trio of Christmas light switch-on events. Accompanied by Trust Chief Executive, Richard Parker, the local children sang carols to patients, staff and visitors, never once letting the weather dampen their spirits.

Staff at the Trust want to thank staff and pupils at St John’s School, Norbridge Academy and Park Primary School for their help in ushering in the festive season, as well as providing good cheer for visitors, patients and colleagues alike.

The Trust recently launched its very own charity, called ‘Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity’ (DBTH Charity), in a bid to make it even easier for local people to support the Trust. If you would like to get involved in fundraising for our hospitals this Christmas, or would like to know more about support and sponsorship please contact the Communications Team on Tel: 01302 644244, email: DBTH.Charity@nhs.net or head to www.dbth.nhs.uk/charity.