Clacton Pier treated seriously ill children and their families to a special festive VIP event last weekend, as part of an annual collaboration with the Rays of Sunshine charity’s “12 days of Wishmas” campaign.
Guests from as far afield as Ascot visited the attraction to enjoy soft play, adventure golf, dodgems, Santa’s Grotto, and the arcade, as well as a craft space, face painting, and a buffet supported by a number of the pier’s suppliers.
“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,” said Rays of Sunshine’s head of events Jenny Porter.
“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. Thank you to everyone at Clacton Pier, especially to the team who gave up their time voluntarily to support us on the night.”
Speaking on behalf of the pier, communications manager Nigel Brown added: “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.”
Trudi Everett who took her daughter Hope, 18, to the pier said they had a wonderful time and the whole party was a joy.
“All the staff were so friendly, and catered for our every need; soft play was fun, dodgems exciting, face painting and crafts enjoyed,” she added. “And there was a good variety of foods for my daughter who is gluten free.”
Originally published on Coinslot on December 22, 2025. Republished with permission.