Clacton Pier host Christmas party for seriously ill children

The event was organised in collaboration with the national charity Rays of Sunshine, as part of their 12 Days of Wishmas campaign, which delivers a dozen free festive events to families across the UK.

Amy Rose Richards with Rio Agala, Ada Rose Agala, and Tye Agala at the craft table (Image: Clacton Pier)

This was the second year the pier has taken part, though it also supported Rays of Sunshine in 2016 and 2018.

Jenny Porter, head of events at Rays of Sunshine, said: "Like all our community events, the 12 Days of Wishmas aims to bring wish families together, so they can meet others who have faced similar experiences with a serious illness, and most importantly, have some festive fun.

Maddie Andrews gets her face painted by Fran (Image: Clacton Pier)

"Our event held with the team at Clacton Pier has become such a favourite for our families, who love having the run of such a fun-filled place.

"There is something for every one of our young people to enjoy.

Hallie Robb wearing her balloon hat (Image: Clacton Pier)

"Thank you to everyone at Clacton Pier, especially to the team who gave up their time voluntarily to support us on the night, and all the partners involved who helped us to provide a magical event for so many families."

Around 30 pier staff volunteered to help make the night a success, and families travelled from as far afield as Ascot.

The Rays of Sunshine team (Image: Clacton Pier)

Guests enjoyed a wide range of activities, including soft play, adventure golf, dodgems, Santa’s Grotto, video games and the amusement arcade.

There was also a craft space, face painting, and a buffet which was supported by a number of the pier’s suppliers.

Mia Reeks with Clacton Pier mascot Sidney the Seagull (Image: Clacton Pier)

Communications manager Nigel Brown said: "It was great to see our guests having so much fun. 

"But in truth our team enjoyed themselves just as much and it was an evening which meant a lot to all of us."

Summer Finlay with Tilly Snowball and Tinsel Twinkletoes (Image: Clacton Pier)

Trudi Everett, who attended the event with her 18-year-old daughter Hope, said they had a "wonderful time", and described the whole party as "a joy".

Sidney the Seagull, the pier’s mascot, also made an appearance in festive attire.

Bookers in Clacton and Websters Foods of Kirby Cross donated towards the evening, while the pier's photography providers Events Photo Team (ETM) donated photos for all the families.

Racheal Race with children Harley and Elecia on Dockside Dodgems (Image: Clacton Pier)