Sophia sparks joy at Princesshay

On Friday, November 15th, thousands of sparkling lights were switched on across Princesshay, marking the start of the Christmas countdown.

Sophia, age 4, who recently rang the ‘I Beat Cancer’ bell, had the special job of turning on the lights with her brother, and Santa Claus.

Together, they pushed the giant button illuminating the shopping centre, just in time for Thursday late night shopping.

Over the last two years, Sophia has received invaluable support from Princesshay’s Charity of the Year, ELF (Exeter Leukaemia Fund), during her cancer treatment. 

Sophia’s family has been deeply involved with ELF, and now they are dedicating time to raising awareness of the charity’s vital work, which offers support to children and families battling cancer. 

Sophia’s mum, speaking after the event, shared how ELF’s support made a difference: “We are incredibly grateful for the care and comfort ELF has provided during such a difficult time. Seeing Sophia ring the bell and now celebrating this special Christmas moment with her family means so much to us.” 

Throughout December, ELF will be in Princesshay every Sunday with Santa Claus for Santa Sundays, collecting donations to help continue their work. 

The event also saw festive joy spread through Princesshay as visitors enjoyed the twinkling lights, Exeter’s ‘greenest’ ever spectacle made from recycled aluminium, recycled plastics and featuring ultra-LED bulbs, all while supporting a cause close to the community’s heart. 

For more information on ELF’s work and how to support them this Christmas, visit the Princesshay website.