A round up of festive activities from our FACE fundraising group

It’s been a truly special festive season for our FACE fundraising group, filled with memorable moments, heartfelt generosity and festive cheer across the community.

The 31st FACE Lapland Trip

On Sunday 7 December 2025, FACE celebrated a remarkable milestone with its 31st Lapland Trip, taking children and families on a magical journey to meet Santa Claus.

Christmas can be an especially difficult time for families coping with the loss of a loved one, and the FACE team works tirelessly to make this trip a truly special experience for everyone involved. The day means so much to the families who travel with FACE, and the team continue to receive wonderful feedback from those who take part, both this year and in years gone by.

Many people helped make this year’s trip unforgettable. Sincere thanks go to Canterbury Travel, Edinburgh Airport for their warm early morning welcome, and Jet2, including the pilots and crew, for taking such great care of everyone – and for letting FACE take over the plane’s PA system for some festive karaoke. And of course, special thanks to Santa and all his helpers in Lapland for creating such magical memories.

FACE is incredibly grateful to everyone who volunteered, supported or fundraised to make the Lapland Trip possible, helping to create lasting memories for families who have experienced loss.

Another Fantastic Winter Fair

Everyone at FACE would also like to thank everyone who supported the Winter Fair at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre on Saturday 29 November. An amazing £6,278 was raised on the day, which will help continue funding the small things that make a big difference to people undergoing cancer treatment in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas.

Whether you volunteered, donated, or simply came along to enjoy the festive atmosphere, the FACE team was delighted to have your support. We are incredibly fortunate to have such committed supporters, not just at the Winter Fair, but throughout the year.

Farewell to the FACE Sleigh

After 10 marvellous years on manoeuvres, the much loved FACE Sleigh has gone to a new home – an emotional but fitting send off for a Christmas icon. Created by Jim Pryde, and with Mark Patterson in the driving seat, the sleigh has played an important role in raising money for FACE and brought joy to communities across the East of Scotland year after year.

Huge thanks go to Jim, Mark, and all the FACE team members who took part in the sleigh tours over the years, as well as to Charlie and Stevie at Charlie Irons Coaches (East Calder) for storing the sleigh.

We are really pleased the sleigh will continue to be used to bring enjoyment at Christmas.

FACE is a cancer fund, part of NHS Lothian Charity. FACE was established in the 1990s and is based at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre, Western General Hospital (WGH), Edinburgh.