Families from across the region attended this year’s exclusive after-hours event “Dreamnight” at Chester Zoo, nominated by charities, hospices and hospitals that provide vital care and support, including Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Claire House Children’s Hospice, Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith, and Ronald McDonald House Charities UK.
Dreamnight is delivered each year by Chester Zoo staff and volunteers.
Throughout the evening, families explored Chester Zoo’s 130 acres of wildlife and habitats with dedicated guides, while enjoying face painting, creative activities and appearances from a range of popular characters.
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This year also marked the first time the event has received support from a corporate sponsor, with the MBNA Community Investment Programme providing a £10,000 donation towards the evening, helping fund complimentary photographs and plush toys for guests to take home as keepsakes.
Victoria Dowd, MBNA community investment programme manager, said: “We’re incredibly proud to support Dreamnight in its 21st year and become the event’s first-ever corporate sponsor.
“As well as contributing funding, MBNA colleagues were delighted to volunteer on the night and get involved alongside the Chester Zoo team.
“Supporting organisations that have a positive impact in our local communities is at the heart of the MBNA Community Investment Programme, and Dreamnight is a brilliant example of that in action.”
Cat Humes, strategic partnerships assistant manager at Chester Zoo, said: “Dreamnight is one of the most special events in our calendar. Every year, we welcome families of children with life-limiting illnesses, disabilities and additional support needs for an evening where they can simply enjoy being together and experience the zoo in a relaxed and accessible environment.
“With the zoo closed to all other visitors, families have more space and time to explore our conservation zoo, get closer to the animals and enjoy all the activities on offer. Seeing the smiles on children’s faces and creating those special memories together is what Dreamnight is all about.
“We’re hugely grateful for MBNA’s support this year, which has enabled us to enhance the experience for families, from providing special keepsakes to supporting additional activities throughout the evening.”
One family in attendance added: “We’re very grateful to have been invited. It’s been lovely to spend time together as a family, meet some of the characters and enjoy seeing the animals in a much calmer environment.
“The children have had an amazing time and it’s given us the chance to make some really special memories. Events like this mean so much to families like ours, and we’re incredibly thankful to everyone who made it possible.”
Dreamnight forms part of an international initiative that sees zoos around the world open their doors after hours for children with chronic illnesses, disabilities and additional support needs.
