Thistles Santa's Grotto gives festive gift to Strathcarron Santa and his helpers have helped raise an amazing £4865.33 for Strathcarron Hospice thanks to the Thistles Shopping Centre and its customers. The Stirling shopping centre hosted a sold out magical festive grotto throughout November and December donating all proceeds to the Hospice as part of their #ThistlesHelps campaign. Strathcarron Hospice needs to raise £16,637 daily to provide specialist end of life services to people and their families across Forth Valley, Cumbernauld and Kilsyth. Claire Kennedy, Corporate Fundraiser at Strathcarron Hospice, said: “The Thistles Grotto is one of our favourite events in the fundraising calendar - it's such a magical experience for the children and families and we are very proud to be a part of it. “A huge thanks to all the team at the Thistles who make it possible, to all the families who came along and to our very special volunteers who gave their time to help bring a little extra magic to the event.” Gary Turnbull, Centre Director at Thistles, said: “This festive season we embraced the power of connection, and are truly inspired by the generosity of our customers and the dedication of our staff that made this year’s Santa’s Grotto such a success. “Raising £4865.33 for Strathcarron Hospice reflects the incredible community spirit here in Stirling. Every visit to the grotto helped support the vital care they provide and we’re so proud to have hosted this event as part of our #ThistlesHelps campaign." Santa with Ethan, mum Gemma and Harper Stirling mum Gemma Connell who visited with her two children Ethan and Harper, said: "This was our third year visiting the thistle centre Santa's grotto and it didn't disappoint. It's very much an experience from the minute you arrive. “From writing letters to Santa and seeing the animals, to being in a white winter wonderland and meeting Santa himself – the kids loved it. It was such a wonderful visit. "The fact the money goes to Strathcarron a local charity is the icing on the cake. We will definitely be back next year." Find out more about fundraising for us: Fundraising Donate here: Make A Donationor contact the Fundraising Team on 01324 826 222 email [email protected] Click here for more Strathcarron Hospice News Manage Cookie Preferences