Gold Dust superhero returns to light up Derriford Christmas tree

Derriford Hospital's beautiful Christmas tree is now aglow thanks to a returning Gold Dust superhero, Jasmine Bayly!

On Thursday night, in front of a gathered crowd, 17-year-old, Jasmine, a former patient on the children’s wards at Derriford Hospital, pushed the plunger and officially switched on the tree lights.

Jasmine, who raised money for the appeal in September, when she abseiled down the Holiday Inn, said: “It’s a pleasure to turn the lights on because it can give back to the charity that gave so much to me and hopefully it can give more to the children treated in the future.”

Before and after the light switch on, St Matthew’s Community Choir entertained the crowd by singing Christmas carols and staff from M&S and Warrens Bakery were on hand to offer delicious mince pies and biscuits to the supporting crowd.

The tree and lights, which are situated just outside of the main doors of Derriford Hospital, have been generously provided by our partners, Indigo.

The event was organised as part of the Gold Dust Appeal’s Christmas campaign, ‘Wrap it Up for Gold Dust’, which aims to support the fundraising efforts during the final stretch of the appeal’s journey.

“We’re so close to the end of our appeal now and what better time to be wrapping the appeal up, than at Christmas,” explained Anita Dykes, Matron for Paediatrics at Derriford Hospital.

“The support we have had has been incredible and we really appreciate it. In the next few weeks we hope to be able to share the final designs for the refurbishment of level 12, with a view to the works starting early next year. It really is such an exciting time!

“But, we’re still not quite there with our target of £100,000 so we’re appealing for your support this Christmas and, as our campaign states; we’re asking if you will please help us ‘Wrap It Up for Gold Dust’.”

One of the ways people can support the appeal this Christmas is by dedicating a bauble on the tree, with a special message to a loved one, a friend or colleague.

To do this, you can visit our Welcome Centre in the hospital’s main concourse. Alternatively, you can call 01752 432425 or send a message or wish through our social media accounts, Facebook or Twitter (@golddustappeal). The messages will be written on to the baubles and added to the tree by staff at Derriford Hospital.

Donations to the Gold Dust Appeal can be made by texting WRAP10 £2 to 70070.

There are also many other ways to support our #WrapUpGoldDust campaign, please visit http://bit.ly/OurGoldDust to find out how.