Staff and volunteers from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) had a blast by raising vital funds and spreading awareness at a much-loved TV, film and comic convention in Norwich.
The team was invited to NORCON 2026 – the 15th staging of the popular event – which attracted thousands of visitors and took place at the Norfolk Showground Arena. They hosted a stall in the entrance atrium, where they ran a raffle featuring a star prize of a LEGO Optimus Prime set, as well as a popular Spin the Wheel game.
The games and bucket collection combined raised more than £800, but just as important was the opportunity to raise awareness of EACH, with hundreds of people stopping by to find out more about the charity’s work supporting families across East Anglia.
“It was fantastic to be chosen as NORCON’s supporting charity, and we’d like to thank the organisers for making us feel so welcome,” said Cassie Hollis, EACH’s Community Fundraiser for Norfolk. “Although fundraising events are always important, what made this weekend particularly special was the opportunity to meet thousands of people and share information about the care and support we provide.
“It was great exposure, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, took part in our activities or stopped to chat. Every pound raised helps us continue supporting children, young people and their families across East Anglia.”
The fundraising total received a boost thanks to support from Vader’s Raiders, a Star Wars costume group that raised £170 for EACH through its interactive ‘Shoot a Stormtrooper’ gallery, where visitors could test their aim with Nerf guns. In addition, guest actor Sophie Aldred signed a print that has been generously donated to EACH by Symon Leech, of Brambledown Designs.
NORCON 2026 took place on 26th and 27th September and has been named as a finalist in the Suffolk and Norfolk Event/Festival of the Year Awards for the second year running.
