Young people and their families from Cornwall facing difficult times have enjoyed a complimentary visit to Charlestown’s Tunnel of Lights festive experience.
It's the Christmas event’s final year before the Shipwreck Treasure Museum closes permanently. But, for the fourth year running, organisers threw open the venue’s doors free of charge to families who are being supported by Children’s Hospice South West and Cornwall’s child bereavement support charity, Penhaligon’s Friends.
Those who attended enjoyed observing the tiny felt mice in their land, learning about their love of baubles, writing and posting a letter to Santa, making a wish and drawing on the walls as they journeyed through Christmas Mountain. They also experienced the event’s signature tunnels complete with tens of thousands of twinkling festive lights.
Zef, who is currently receiving care as an inpatient at Children’s Hospice South West’s nearby Little Harbour, was able to take some time out with his family to head to Charlestown to
have some fun and particularly enjoyed the snow falling outside.
Lynné Raubenheimer, event manager at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum said:
“We’re always thrilled to welcome families being supported by these brilliant local charities to enjoy the Tunnel of Lights. Seeing them having fun, smiling and laughing together as they enjoy the event while navigating tricky times is truly special. The Tunnel of Lights is a magical, sensory place that offers a little escape from everyday life and to make some positive memories.”
Julie Parker, CEO at Penhaligon’s Friends said:
“It is so important for our families to have things to look forward to and making memories for the future is a part of that. Events that the whole family can be a part of feel very special, especially at Christmas, as it can be a particularly difficult, poignant time of the year for many who have suffered a bereavement.
“We are grateful to the Shipwreck Treasure Museum for enabling this opportunity and allowing some of the more than 1000 bereaved families we support each year from across Cornwall to enjoy the Tunnel of Lights again this year.”
The Tunnel of Lights runs daily until New Year’s Eve, Tuesday 31 December, closing on Christmas and Boxing Day. Further information and tickets are available to book online by visiting shipwreckcharlestown.co.uk
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