Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre will be illuminated green on the longest night of the year in support of the NSPCC's ‘Walk for Children’ Christmas campaign.

On Wednesday, December 21, the NSPCC is asking people in Wiltshire to dust off their walking boots and get into the festive spirit by taking part in the charity’s Walk for Children.

Walk for Children is a sponsored 5km walk where families, friends, and colleagues can get together on the longest night of the year to raise money to support the NSPCC and Childline this Christmas.

Laura James, theatre director at the Wyvern, said: “The NSPCC’s Childline is such a vital service for the safety and wellbeing of young people across the UK and one that we are thrilled to be able to support here in Swindon.

“Our theatres come alive with the joy and excitement of children during the festive season, but we also know it can be an incredibly difficult time for vulnerable young people. We will be lighting up green on December 21 to show our support to the Walk for Children campaign.”

On average, two children a minute contact Childline. At a time that should be magical for all children and young people, Childline counsellors will be receiving calls about abuse, neglect, self-harm, and anxiety.

Emma Hildesley, NSPCC community fundraising manager for Bristol, Bath and Wiltshire  said: “The community of Swindon is very much at the heart of NSPCC’s work and not everyone knows we have a dedicated team here based in Old Town, supporting local children and families all year round.

“Having support from a landmark venue like the Wyvern is wonderful as we are united in our message that we are here for children and will continue to be so throughout the festive period.

“Laura and the team have been so supportive to us this year and we cannot thank them enough for their ongoing generosity.”

The Walk for Children starts at 3.45pm on December 21, and people will be meeting at the Swindon Arts Centre before walking down to the Wyvern Theatre for the light up. 

To sign up and do your own Walk for Children and to see a list of local participating landmarks search Walk for Children on the NSPCC website.