News Beat
Special bereavement Christmas event held at Murton Park
MORE than 100 bereaved children and their families came together at Murton Park for a heart-warming Christmas event hosted by the charity Talking About Loss offering a unique blend of festive joy and gentle remembrance.
Set against the magical backdrop of Murton Park, families enjoyed an afternoon of Christmas wonder.
Children became reindeer detectives on the festive train, met Santa and his elves in the North Pole Village, and laughed through the Mother Christmas Elf School Show, filled with festive mischief, songs and plenty of join-in fun.
Alongside the laughter were important moments of reflection and memory-making at the event on November 30.
Children decorated wooden tealight holders in honour of someone special and wrote wishes and messages on present tags, which were placed on the Wish Tree in the North Pole.
The day concluded with a quiet gathering around the Wish Tree, where Mother Christmas – played by local celebrant Fiona Brown, who created the event – lit the North Pole Candle on behalf of all the families. Her gentle words encouraged children to think of their loved one, whisper a name if they wished, and hold their memories close as the candle glowed.
Speaking after the event, Fiona said: “Taking on my Mother Christmas duties this year felt especially meaningful. As a celebrant, I know how emotional the festive season can be – and after losing my own mum last year, that understanding has become deeply personal.
“What mattered most at the event was creating a space where children could smile and laugh, while also honouring the person they miss. The magic of Christmas doesn’t replace that love – but it can help children feel connected, comforted, and reminded that their special person is still part of their story.”
Talking About Loss shared their appreciation following the event, saying: “What made the day so powerful wasn’t the numbers – it was the courage, kindness and community shown by every family who joined us. We honour every story shared, every wish whispered, and every moment of togetherness.”
The event was made possible thanks to funding from City of York Council’s Bereavement Services (York Crematorium) through the National Recycling of Metals Scheme, and with support from Murton Park, The DVLR Railway, and The Yorkshire Barn, which also hosts the monthly Bereavement Café led by Talking About Loss.
