NEONATAL units will get a funding boost thanks to Kandu Arts’ efforts as part of this weekend’s Chippenham Winter Festival.

The community group, which uses art, music and football to help develop individuals considered at risk, has organised a number of festive fundraising activities including a Follow the Star treasure hunt, mince pie bake-off, musical performances and sales of a Seasons Greetings card the group has designed itself.

Originally, Kandu planned to raise funds both for its own coffers and for the homeless charity Doorway, but one of the teenage boys Kandu works with, who is being fostered in Chippenham, suggested that Kandu’s share should benefit a number of neonatal units, including the one at Bath’s Royal United Hospital.

His suggestion came after he got a sneak preview of Santa’s gingerbread grotto in Emery Gate and learned that it had been inspired by a baby who had died.

Kandu Arts director Ed Deedigan said: “I like the idea that this child in care is thinking, actually there are people less supported than he feels. It shows how well his foster parents are doing, he’s obviously got to a good place.

“It’s a great thing for him to see that what he says counts – that we are following his lead.”

Kandu has designed a Seasons Greetings card featuring a picture of the grotto, which people will be able to buy after Santa and his reindeer arrive at Emery Gate at 12.30pm on Saturday.

On Friday, the group’s monthly showcase will take place at the Citadel Hall in Bath Road from 7pm. On Saturday, town councillor David Powell is looking forward to feasting on mince pies and declaring the winner of the bake-off. The contenders battling it out on the first floor of the Angel Hotel are Revolutions, Scoffs and Sarah-Jayne’s Café. The competition entries will be handed out after the winner is announced.

Outside, under the Buttercross, Kandu musicians will be busking with Chippenham band Jayney and the Drop Outs, before the Christmas lights are switched on at 6pm.

The group has also been busy making 12 stars out of recycled materials for a Follow the Star treasure hunt. A sheet available from the grotto will show pictures of the stars and provide clues as to where they can be found. People who track them down will be entered into a draw for a chance to win prizes including £100 from David Powell.