Host of celebs joining Julia's House Christmas Cracker

The virtual festive telethon-style night will have plenty of stars taking part.

Published 24th Nov 2020
Last updated 24th Nov 2020

The Julia's House Christmas Cracker is being billed as a 'big night in for all the family' with live music, comedy, Christmas readings and stories about the Dorset charity's work all put together in an online show.

It's hoped we'll watch along and donate to the children's hospice throughout the night, which is planned for next Wednesday (2nd December).

There'll be lots of famous faces lending their support too, including:

Actress, comedian, singer and impressionist Debra Stephenson, who'll be co-hosting the whole event with Julia's House CEO Martin Edwards

Casualty star Guy Henry

Chris Jarvis from CBeebies has been meeting families who've benefitted from the work of Julia's House

Actor Nigel Havers

Best selling author John le Carré

James McVey from pop group The Vamps will be leading a festive singalong

Community Fundraising Manager, Liz Thompson, said:

"It has been an extraordinary year. Life has really changed for us all in 2020 and for many people, including the families we support, it's going to be a very different Christmas. We can't host our popular carol services this year so we have decided to bring everyone together for a festive celebration that can be enjoyed by people of all ages from the comfort of their own homes.

"We're lining up a really exciting programme of events, it's going to be a very special evening indeed."

The Julia's House Christmas Cracker will be held on Wednesday 2nd December from 7.30pm - streamed live through the Julia's House Facebook page or the Julia's House website.

Debra Stephenson will be co-hosting the event with the CEO of Julia's House

TOUGH YEAR FOR JULIA'S HOUSE

The Covid-19 pandemic has made things difficult for the children's hospice charity during 2020.

They've done their best to keep services running for children with life-limiting conditions and their families, to give them some respite when they're feeling overwhelmed, lonely or isolated.

Julia's House has continued their home visits as well as online play sessions and storytimes to stick to Government guidelines.

Julia's House have tried to keep their sessions going as much as possible during the pandemic

The charity only gets 5% of its funding though, so is reliant on the public for their support.

Income has dramatically dropped during this year, as the charity has had to close their charity shops during the lockdowns and many fundraising events have had to be cancelled.

Julia's House have said 'as social distancing restrictions continue, the charity anticipates a challenging year ahead'.