'It's made a huge difference': dad thanks Griff Rhys Jones

Why it matters: Last year’s show raised a record-breaking £151,500, taking its total to around £700,000 since 2019. Mal says that support is vital because “without fundraising, it’s very difficult to move forward”.

The details: Griff Rhys Jones, the comedian and EACH patron, met with Noah who has cerebral palsy and receives care from EACH. The meeting took place during a media morning at The Treehouse, EACH's Ipswich hospice, to promote next month's show.

The seventh edition of Happy Christmas Ipswich takes place at The Ipswich Regent on Monday, 30 November 2026.

What they're saying: Mal said: "We've been coming to the hospice for around a year, and it's made a huge difference to our family.

"The staff are so friendly and welcoming, and whenever Noah comes here for short breaks, we know he's safe and happy."

He added: "We appreciate that a huge amount of work goes on here, but without fundraising, it's very difficult to move forward.

"That's why Happy Christmas Ipswich is vitally important, and we're extremely grateful to Griff. It was a pleasure to meet him and say thank you on behalf of all families supported here at The Treehouse."

Rhys Jones, who organised the first Happy Christmas Ipswich in 2019, said: "I love coming to The Treehouse because it gives me the opportunity to meet people like Mal and Noah.

"The money we raise makes a genuine difference to entire families, not just the children receiving care, and, in terms of funding, this is a charity powered by the people of East Anglia."

The line-up: Sir Lenny Henry and Chris McCausland are among the acts performing. They will be joined by:

• Presenter and actor Stephen Bailey
• Comedians Katie Norris, Pravanya Pillay and Charmian Hughes
• Impressionist Lewis MacLeod
• Opera group Wild Arts
• Bury St Edmunds' VOCA Community Choir

Families receiving support at The Treehouse will also perform, with more acts to be announced in the coming weeks.

For context: The show is hosted by EACH and driven by Rhys Jones, with support from local businesses including headline sponsor Richard Johnston Ltd.

Tickets went on sale in the summer and are selling fast.

The bottom line: With around £700,000 raised since 2019, Happy Christmas Ipswich has become a source of support for EACH, and for families like Noah’s, that means a chance to rest, recharge and take stock.

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