On Saturday, 2nd December over 40 thrill seeking Santas braved the chilly winter weather to abseil down the iconic Cheddar Gorge and raise funds to support the hospice.

Abseiling experts from Cave and Climb kitted our supporters out at the gorge before giving them top training so they could make their 60ft descent down this iconic natural landmark while taking in stunning frosty views.

Families and friends wrapped up warm and cheered on their loved ones as they took on this amazing challenge whilst our wonderful volunteer elves were full of cheer as they presented our heroic Santas with medals and congratulated them on their fundraising achievements.

Ralph Langworthy-Smith, a Community Nurse Specialist at St Margaret's who took part in the abseil, said: "It was an amazing experience. I was bit nervous when I got to the top of the gorge but once I took my first step and started my abseil there was no stopping me. I really enjoyed it.

"I'd like to say a massive thank you to everyone who sponsored me and who has supported this year's Santa Abseil. The money you've raised will make a massive difference to patients and their families."

After their abseil, our Santas were greeted with a warm welcome, enjoying free hot drinks in The Riverside Inn in Cheddar and scrumptious mince pies, which were generously donated by Burns the Bread in Glastonbury.

As of the latest count, this year's Santa Abseil has successfully raised over £12,000, and more donations are expected in the coming days. This year's event was proudly sponsored by HSBC UK and the oldest participant to take part was 83-year-old Phillipa, who volunteers in our Taunton Hospice who said she was 'thrilled' to have taken on the challenge alongside her daughter Lisa.

Merle Harrison-Croft, Events Manager at St Margaret's, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, volunteers, and local businesses for their tremendous support, without which this event would not have been possible.

"We are absolutely delighted with the amazing response we've had to this year's Santa Abseil event and would like to say a big thank you to our brave Santas for taking on this amazing challenge in aid of us," Merle explained.

"The support we've received from our community has been remarkable, and it was wonderful to see so many abseilers and their families come out to support the hospice on what was a chilly weekend. The funds you've raised could pay for 110 Specialist Community Nurse visits for patients in Somerset so they can receive the vital care they need at home which makes a huge difference."

If you would like to take part in next year's Santa Abseil 2024 email [email protected] to register your interest by visiting the St Margaret's website for more information.