A POPULAR charity concert that raises thousands of pounds every year for a hospice has had to be cancelled because of concerns about the latest variant of COVID.
St Teresa’s Hospice’s Christmas Cracker Concert was due to be staged (tomorrow) on Saturday, December 18, at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington, and was expected to raise around £5,000.
But the hospice’s chief executive Jane Bradshaw said: “It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the cancellation of the Christmas Cracker Concert because as a healthcare charity we are acutely aware of the need to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
“The safety of everyone involved in the Christmas Cracker – performers, audience members, volunteers and venue staff – is paramount, and we had in place a series of measures to make the event as safe as possible. However, the rapid increase of cases linked with the Omicron variant is a serious concern and we feel very strongly that it is not right at this time to proceed with a mass gathering such as the Christmas Cracker.
“We do not take decisions such as this lightly and assure you that we are doing this with the health and safety of the public in mind first and foremost.”
Mrs Bradshaw said she was acutely aware of how disappointing the decision would be for the audience and performers and it was undoubtedly a blow to the hospice’s Christmas fundraising campaign.
“Everyone at the Hospice is sad to have to cancel such a popular event, one which we were all looking forward to, but we hope that you will understand,” she said.
Anyone who has bought a ticket can keep it for the 2022 concert, the date of which will be confirmed as soon as possible.
Mrs Bradshaw said: “If you would like to retain your ticket, we look forward to welcoming you next year when, all being well, we will be in a safer position to go ahead.
“If you can’t attend in 2022 but would like to donate your ticket fee, then thank you. Your donation will help us to continue providing vital free care and support services to residents of Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire.
“Thank you for your support and understanding. Please, stay safe and follow the latest guidance. Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from all at St Teresa’s Hospice.”
For more information and updates visit www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk/christmas-cracker. Anyone requiring a refund should contact (01325) 254321 or email events@darlingtonhospice.org.uk.