Sheffield Hospitals Charity held a night of festive entertainment at the Sheffield Cathedral, hosted by Radio 2 presenter and ex-Gogglebox star Kate Bottley.

Originally from Sheffield, Kate presents BBC Radio 2’s weekly show Good Morning, was a regular contributor to the Pause for Thought feature on Chris Evans’ Breakfast Show and is a presenter on Songs of Praise.

Following the sell-out success of the event in 2022, the Charity returned with their festive fundraiser for a second year.

Guests were treated to a musical extravaganza provided by local groups who volunteered their time including the University of Sheffield Music Player’s Society, Chris and Tara Marshall-Unitt, Sheffield Rock Choir, The Larks Quartet, Sheffield NHS Voices, Neighbourhood Voices, and Sheffield Cancer Choir. The Bailey-Cox Dance Group also performed a surprise routine on stage.

The Charity’s Christmas video featuring Pete McKee was played on the big screens sparking an emotional reaction from the audience.

Proceeds from the evening will go towards helping Sheffield’s hospitals, community teams and social care services.

Beth Crackles, Chief Executive of Sheffield Hospitals Charity, said: ‘It was such an uplifting night and Kate was a fabulous host. I particularly loved her sequinned clerical gown she wore for the occasion! We’re so grateful to all of the performers, volunteers and supporters who gave their time and energy to get us all into the Christmas spirit’

Each year Sheffield Cathedral holds a Christmas Tree Festival where local businesses, community groups and charities are invited to decorate their own tree in imaginative ways. For the Sheffield Hospitals Charity tree, visitors to the Cathedral are invited to pick a hug bauble, inspired by Pete McKee’s National Hug Service, and write a personal message of thanks to Sheffield’s NHS.

The tree of hugs currently has hundreds of heartfelt handwritten messages.

People can vote for their favourite tree and two local good causes will benefit from a cash award. Sheffield Hospitals Charity are in the running for best charity tree this year.