Four charities are set to help represent the spirit of Christmas for a special display at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock.
Staff at the palace have been planning its Christmas decorations since February and for the first time decided to feature charities prominently in its displays, hoping their efforts will lead to people donating money.
The theme for this year’s lavish decorations at the palace is The Spirit of Christmas; Past, Present and Future.
Kate Rigby, who has co-ordinated the initiative for the Duke of Marlborough, said: “We wanted to bring local charities into Blenheim.
“Being able to highlight their causes is something that is very important to His Grace and the whole team.
“We really wanted to get other people to think not just about themselves at Christmas but others as well.”
Oxford Children’s Hospital, Oxford hospices Helen & Douglas House and Sobell House, along with the Dogs Trust charity, were invited in to decorate sparkling silver trees, flanked by information about their work and donation boxes.
The spirit of Christmas Past will be represented within the palace’s Great Hall, which will be decorated in Victorian fashion, while Christmas Present will see the Saloon set for a Christmas feast as it would be for the present Duke of Marlborough.
Mrs Rigby said that apart from raising money for the charities it was hoped the initiative would raise awareness of their work.
Throughout the Christmas period, numerous events are being held at the palace, with carol singing, silver and brass bands, story-telling and crafts fairs.
Between 20,000 and 40,000 people will visit the palace during the festive season, and all of them will have a chance to see the charity displays and contribute towards them.
Mrs Rigby said: “It has been hard work but it looks absolutely brilliant. The comments over the last couple of days as it has come together have been really positive, and that makes it all worthwhile.”
The first festive activities took place on Sunday, with ‘Stir-up Sunday’ — a chance for families to take it in turns to stir the Christmas pudding and make a wish, overseen by Blenheim Palace’s Victorian cook.
Friday and Saturday will see the palace’s festive craft show, which will feature 90 stalls showcasing the best of British produce.
More information about events at the palace is available at blenheimpalace.com
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