Santa and Stagecoach spread festive cheer at Tameside hospital

Festive cheer arrived on the children’s ward at Tameside Hospital this week as Santa Claus and his helpers travelled in style on a specially decorated open-top bus to deliver gifts to young patients spending Christmas away from home.

The heart-warming visit began at Stagecoach’s Oldham depot, where staff gathered early to prepare the bus for its seasonal journey. Decked out with festive decorations and filled with sacks of presents, the open-top bus created an unforgettable sight as it made its way to the hospital, bringing smiles long before Santa stepped through the doors.

The initiative was made possible thanks to a collaboration between Stagecoach Manchester and Tesco, with multiple Tesco stores across Tameside and Oldham donating toys. The generosity of customers, store staff and Stagecoach employees ensured that every child on the ward received a gift, helping to make Christmas feel special despite the challenges of being in hospital.

The day was organised by Chris Liddle, an inspector at Stagecoach’s Oldham depot, who also took on the role of Santa Claus himself. After months of planning and fundraising, Chris said the effort was well worth it.

“It’s a big day for us,” he said. “It’s been a long night and a busy time of year, but we’re here to give some amazing children some presents. That’s what matters.”

Beyond spreading cheer, the event also raised money for charity. Chris managed to raise £175 for The Christie Hospital after securing donated football tickets from Oldham Athletic and raffling them to supporters.

“That took a real team effort,” he explained. “Oldham Football Club donated the tickets, and people were incredibly generous. It’s brilliant to be able to bring happiness to children here while also raising money for another fantastic cause.”

Union representatives Neil and Sol, who were present at the depot before the bus set off, spoke about the importance of events like this for Stagecoach and its role in the community.

Santa with one of the children and hospitals pet therapy dogs. You can order your digital download at notreallyheregroup.photo

Neil said: “Over the last 18 months especially, Stagecoach has really focused on being part of the local community. It’s not just about running buses; it’s about supporting the areas we serve and the people who live there.”

Sol added: “We get involved in what really matters to everyday life. There’s a lot of fundraising that goes on here, and a lot of support for local events and causes. It shows that Stagecoach is part of the community, not separate from it.”

At the hospital, the arrival of Santa was met with excitement from children, families and staff alike. Laura, a play specialist on the children’s ward at Tameside Hospital, described the visit as one of the most special moments of the year.

“It’s incredibly important,” she said. “Being in hospital at Christmas can be very difficult for children and their families, but seeing Santa makes it magical. You can see their faces light up straight away.”

She explained that the hospital works hard to make Christmas feel as normal and joyful as possible for young patients.

“We provide a Christmas dinner for all the children, and where possible we set up tables in the playroom so families can sit and eat together,” Laura said. “Santa also drops presents off in advance, putting them into sacks so they’re ready to open on Christmas morning.”

You can order your digital download at notreallyheregroup.photo

“For the children, it means everything,” she added. “It shows them that Santa hasn’t forgotten them just because they’re in hospital. He knows exactly where they are, and that makes it really special.”

Stagecoach Manchester Managing Director Rob Jones and Operations Manager Richard Jones praised staff, partners and volunteers for their dedication and generosity.

Richard said: “Chris has been collecting presents for around six months, and all of our Manchester depots have supported that. Along with Tesco, we’ve managed to collect over 800 presents across three hospitals. That’s an incredible achievement.”

Rob added: “At challenging times like these, it’s fantastic to see that strong community spirit. Oldham depot and Stagecoach Manchester really do care about giving something back. When you realise how many families are struggling, especially at Christmas, doing something like this can make a huge difference.”

As Santa made his way through the ward, handing out presents and posing for photos, the joy on the children’s faces spoke louder than words. For a few moments, hospital rooms were filled with laughter, excitement and festive magic, a reminder of the power of kindness and community.