Deer Park Country House Host The Great South West Scone-Off Gift Drive in Aid of Operation Rudolph

Nobody should go without the magic of Christmas, which is the motivation behind project Operation Rudolph. Supporting the project, Deer Park Country House in Honiton are hosting The Great South West Scone-Off Gift Drive on Thursday 24 November. 

The entry price is one gift per person, which will be donated to someone who could do with a pick-me-up this Christmas. 

350 tickets are available for guests to enjoy a South West cream tea, consisting of homemade scones prepared by some of the South West's top patisserie chefs. In return, guests are required to donate an unwrapped brand new gift - perhaps a toy for a child, or something to lift an adult's spirits (worth at least £10), which will then be wrapped-up by a team of volunteer elves and distributed to young children who will benefit most from them this Christmas. 

This event is organised in partnership with community interest group, Inspiring Connections. Last year, Inspiring Connections organised over 100 hot meals on Christmas day, supported 120 families with gifts and provided 78 meat boxes. Operation Rudolph is a global project, which started in 2020 and aims to support families during what is often a difficult period. Through donations and fundraising, individuals and families are provided with Christmas hampers and presents. 

Mark Godfrey, who is the MD at Deer Park Country House says: “All children deserve the magic of Christmas and something special to unwrap under the tree. As we head into a hard winter, we wanted to support our local community and help ease the pressure on those who might need it this festive season.”

Sharon Thorne, the founder and director of Inspiring Connection says: “Honiton Foodsave has indicated that demand has increased 50% compared with this time last year. There is real concern about how families will manage and the decision of 'heat or eat' is a real everyday issue for many. 

“With Operation Rudolph, there are no complicated forms or means testing, just a simple sign-up for applicants to indicate what support is needed. It's all free of charge and we know that once our customers are in a stronger position, they will give back when they can.

“We are always looking for volunteers to support Operation Rudolph within roles before the 25th December. Even a few hours will make a huge difference to our communities. We urge people to consider their neighbours over the festive period - perhaps invite them over for Christmas dinner, share company and spread the good community vibes for all.”

Dozens of volunteers and numerous supporting businesses will play an essential role in bringing the event together. Trewithen Dairy are donating 24kg of their award-winning Cornish clotted cream to complete the cream tea, and Waterhouse Fayre are providing strawberry jam.

Trewithen Dairy director, Francis Clarke commented: “As a family-run dairy, this project is close to our hearts. Making a child smile this Christmas is something you can't put a price on. We're keen to support Operation Rudolph and help spread the wonder and magic of the festive season.

Two sessions are available for The Great Scone-Off Gift Drive at Deer Park Country House; 2:30-3:30pm or 4:00-5:00pm. Booking is essential via info@inspiring-connections.org or 0300 365 4545.