Brighton charity thanks holiday firm staff for gifts for children in Royal Alex

A Brighton charity has issued a public thank you to staff from a holiday firm who donated presents for children in hospital on Christmas Day.

Rockinghorse, based in Prince Albert Street, thanked staff at Virgin Holidays for supporting the charity’s “Christmas at the Alex” appeal last month.

The company donated more than 100 shoeboxes filled with gifts for youngsters of different ages to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton.

The presents were delivered on Christmas morning to children who had to spend the holiday period in hospital because of illness or injury.

Terri Bailey, general manager of people and performance at Virgin Holidays, delivered the shoeboxes to the children’s hospital.

She said: “The staff in the business support teams at Virgin Holidays chose this particular appeal as they were aware of Rockinghorse’s charity work and really wanted to do something to help.

“We were delighted with the team’s response to this appeal and the generosity of staff.

“It’s very sad for children to be in hospital over Christmas but everyone at Virgin Holidays wishes the children a speedy recovery and we hope with their families they have had a very happy Christmas.”

Rockinghorse has run its “Christmas at the Alex” appeal for the past three years to ensure that children in hospital are not forgotten and can enjoy the festive season despite being away from their families.

Analiese Doctrove, Rockinghorse fundraiser, said: “We are so grateful for the generosity of the staff at Virgin Holidays – it really brightened up Christmas morning for the children and distracted them from their stay.”

For more information about Rockinghorse or to find out how you can help make life better for sick and disabled children near you, call 01273 730286 or visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk.