25/01/25

St. Rocco’s Elf and Reindeer Run brings festive cheer to Warrington Schools

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The 2024 Elf and Reindeer Run saw a record-breaking 26 schools and nurseries across Warrington take part in the festive fundraiser, raising £20,817.75 so far. Over 5,000 children put on their elf hats and reindeer antlers, running laps around playgrounds, and fields, and even tackling obstacle courses to raise vital funds for the hospice.

St Bridget’s Catholic Primary School supports the hospice in many ways each year, Head Teacher Cerry Dobson said “St Bridget’s supports St. Rocco’s every year, not just with the Reindeer Run, but we also enjoy the Bunny Hop! It is one of our favourite charities and very dear to our hearts. Lots of families have a close connection with St. Rocco’s as it has offered support to many of us over the years.”

Community Fundraisers Karen Rutherford and Beth Allison had the privilege of joining in on several runs, meeting children, teachers, and parents who embraced the Christmas spirit with creativity and enthusiasm. The runs saw teachers dressing up as reindeer, parents in elf costumes, and even visits from two mischievous elves at Winick School.

Community Fundraising Officer Karen said, “We have been blown away by the energy and generosity shown by everyone. It is heartwarming to see the children not only having fun and staying active but also learning about the hospice and its work.”

St. Rocco’s also received support from local businesses. Emma Perkins from St. Barnabas CE Primary School approached local company Rock Oil, who donated £500 to cover the cost of antlers and elf hats for participating schools. This partnership has made a huge difference, ensuring more schools could take part while building a relationship between the hospice and a local business.

The generosity didn’t stop there:

  • Elphin’s Primary School led the way by raising an incredible £3,619.70
  • At Nurture, Learn and Grow Nursery, one shining star raised over £200 single-handedly.
  • Birchwood High School added to the festivities with its annual Santa Dash, which showed its ongoing support for St. Rocco’s.

We want to say a huge thank you to each school and nursery that took part in this year’s Elf and Reindeer Run!

These funds raised will ensure St. Rocco’s can continue to deliver a number of services to our patients and their families, such as providing freshly cooked meals, complimentary therapies, and many other comforts to help them feel comfortable.

Bookings are now open for the 2025 Elf and Reindeer Run taking place from Monday 1st December, click here to book in your place.

If you would like to take part in our Bunny Hop event this easter with your school or nursery, click here to find out more.