The annual ‘Blingo’ fundraiser, which has grown in popularity in recent years, aids the local charity’s work to support premature babies, critically ill children and their families across the Bailiwick.
‘Last year we raised £30,000, so to make 2026 our most impactful year yet and set a new record is incredibly rewarding after months of preparation,’ said Sara Edmonds, head of fundraising and Blingo organiser.
‘We introduced new musical-themed games this year, and it was without a doubt our biggest and craziest event yet. The atmosphere was electric. We’re already receiving enquiries for next year. I’d like to thank our sponsors, volunteers and everyone who supported the event.
‘Having seen first-hand the support families receive, including when my niece underwent life-saving cancer treatment and stayed in Aggie’s Burrow at just 18 months old, I know just how much of a difference these funds will make.’
The event included an auction, with items donated from local sports stars, including footballers Alex Scott and Maya Le Tissier, and race car driver Seb Priaulx. Seb is the inspiration for the PPBF charity – his parents founded the cause after his premature birth.
The auction alone raised £6,000.
‘I’m delighted to donate one of my signed match shirts to PPBF for their auction,’ said Maya.
‘Having a brother, Harvey, who was born extremely premature and having to spend three or four months in Southampton, I hope that the shirt helps to raise funds for the foundation.’
Her shirt was bought by local primary school teacher, Gary Darling. ‘Maya was in our primary school’s under-11 island team,’ he said.
‘It’s been a joy to watch her progress from St Martin’s to Brighton to Manchester United and England. I’m sure the couple of games lessons I taught her at Castel Primary School made all the difference. Happy to support a wonderful charity and I look forward to bidding on her England captain’s armband in the future.’
Among the many dancing guests, the recent fundraiser welcomed local jeweller, Catherine Best, who hosted a round of bingo, and Lucy Freeth from the House of Fandango who partnered with the PPBF to create comforting pillows for children. Speakers included the Atkinson family, who shared their experience of having a baby in need of treatment at Southampton hospital.
