National Coal Mining museum’s bid to spread festive cheer across Yorkshire

It hopes that the Gift A Child a Festive Experience campaign will make a huge difference to children who might be left out of the festive season.

A £50 donation would give a child the chance to experience “an unforgettable meeting with Santa in his underground grotto”, says the museum, which is a registered charity.

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Lynn Dunning, chief executive officer at the museum, said: "We are urging people to come together and show local children that no matter what the struggles, the spirit of Christmas will always shine through.

"For these children, it’s a chance to for them to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas. The National Coal Mining Museum is stepping up to offer these children an experience they wouldn’t otherwise have – but we can’t do it alone.

"So as a part of the Wakefield community, let’s share in the joy of giving by gifting a child a truly memorable festive experience to see Santa underground.

"They’ll receive a gift, enjoy a meal, plus storytelling and craft activities to make this year unforgettable."

Donations are not just about giving a present, says the museum but about goes towards transport to and from the museum, “so that even the most isolated families can take part”; visit to Santa in his underground grotto; a drink, snack and lunch, so that every child feels nourished and cared for during their visit; a photo with Santa; a festive craft making activity, giving children the chance to create something special to remember the day by; and support museum’s family and educational activities.

Mining at Caphouse was carried out for centuries. A plan dated 1791 showing workings from 1789 to 1795, includes a shaft on the site, and it had a number of owners over the years.

By 1985 the coal at Caphouse was exhausted and its transformation into to a museum began. In 1988 the Yorkshire Mining Museum opened as a 48 acre site, and it was granted national status in 1995.

Following this the Department for Culture, Media and Sport carried out a detailed study into the museum, and in 1998 provided funding which secured its long-term future.

In 2001 the museum received a Heritage Lottery Fund Grant of just over £4.5 million and the facility itself raised just under £2 million to complement the grant. Work carried out using this money included restoring buildings, new gallery areas and the store for large machinery. In 2002 admission became free.

To make a £50 or more donation visit www.ncm.org.uk/festive-gift