Last night, one of Sheffield’s best-loved Christmas traditions made a move…to the city’s railway station. For the first time, the hugely popular annual St Luke’s Hospice Festival of Light extended beyond hospice grounds and was welcomed by East Midlands Trains to the station in the heart of the city.
Opening the ceremony, Tim Shoveller, Managing Director of East Midlands Trains said “We’re so pleased to be able to take part in the Festival of Light by providing a location in the heart of the city of Sheffield. I hope that providing such a focal point for a tree will help the Hospice raise thousands of pounds for their very worthy cause.”
The big switch-on was coordinated by radio presenter Rony Robinson, with Nurse Viv Esberger turning the lights on.
Musical entertainment and Christmas carols were provided by All Saints School Choir and the Sheffield Folk Chorale. Mince pies and mulled wine were offered to passengers by Upper Crust, who operate a retail outlet at the station. In return for refreshments they were also collecting money for the Hospice.
There are a thousand lights all needing a dedication, at a minimum donation of £5 each, with all donations supporting patient care at the Hospice. Call (0114) 236 99 11 for full details of how to make a Sheffield Station Festival of Light tree dedication or ask at the station information desk.
Picture one- left to right: Rony Robinson, The Lord Mayor of Sheffield (Councillor Mrs Jane Bird), Tim Shoveller, Viv Esberger
