More Santas than ever before walked all the way from Chorley town centre to the top of Rivington Pike, and then back again this weekend.
The record-breaking annual Jingle All the Way event saw 1,400 Santas take on the 15-mile trek to raise money for Derian House Children’s Hospice on Saturday (November 9).
To date, the festive fundraiser has raised £34,000 for Derian House, with more donations expected in the coming weeks. Jingle All The Way has now raised more than £220,000 for the hospice since its inception in 2012.
This year’s record-breaking turnout of Santas is a huge leap from the original 150 participants who first donned their red suits in 2012.
Neil Hailwood, a Chorley businessman and ambassador for Derian House, founded Jingle All The Way in 2012 in memory of a close friend’s son who tragically passed away at a young age.
“What a weekend we had with Jingle All The Way for Derian House Children’s Hospice,” said Neil.
“To think we had over 1400 people dress up as Santa and walk 15 miles was just incredible. The sea of red was just a beautiful thing. Thanks to everyone who supported the event, either through sponsorship, taking part, donating equipment or being part of the support team.”
Two young people who benefit from the services at Derian House – 24-year-old Leo Cliffe from Leyland and eight-year-old Riziah Moazzeny from Chorley – were among those who joined the walk.
And well-known faces could be spotted amongst the sea of Santas – including Paralympian powerlifter Olivia Broome, Britain’s Got Talent comedian Steve Royle, Leigh Leopards rugby league player Josh Charnley, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chorley, Councillor Gordon France and Councillor Margaret France, as well as Chorley-born Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle.
After completing the walk, participants gathered at Chorley Market for a lively after-party, where they celebrated their achievements with food, drinks, and karaoke – after collecting their hard-earned medals.
Mick Croskery, Head of Income Generation at Derian House, said: “It just gets bigger and better each year! Thank you to every single Santa who helped us in this record-breaking Jingle all the Way for Derian House. The event has become a beloved community tradition that brings everyone together to support the hospice.
“We couldn’t be more grateful to Neil for all he has done for Derian House children and families. He works so hard on ensuring this event is so well organised and always runs like clockwork.
“In 2024 it will cost £6million to run services at Derian House with just 30p in every £1 of this coming from statutory sources and the rest coming our incredible supporters.”
Donate to the event on JustGiving.
Derian House, based in Chorley, Lancashire, cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
