Let’s support our community and enjoy the festive season together.
December is here, and Ravelin Sports Centre is getting ready to share some festive cheer with the whole community. This year, we’re bringing back three things we love: helping others through our Reverse Advent Calendar, having fun with Christmas Jumper Day, and staying active and having fun with our Santa Fun Run. They’re all easy to join, and each one helps make this time of year a little warmer for everyone. So read on to find out more and get involved.
Reverse Advent Calendar
The Reverse Advent Calendar flips the Christmas tradition around - instead of opening a little door each day for a surprise, you add something small that can help someone in need. It’s a kind and simple way to support people in our community.
This year, we’re proud to support The Life House, a friendly local food kitchen that offers warm meals, drinks, and food parcels to anyone in need. The Life House opens on Wednesday mornings for breakfast and on Thursday evenings for dinner, providing a welcoming space, practical help, and essential supplies. They help people feel safe, welcome, and cared for.
What you can donate:
Food & Drinks:
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Long-life milk
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Butter/spread tubs
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Sugar and salt
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Instant coffee
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Cereal and porridge
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Tinned food
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Pot noodles
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Fruit juice cartons
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Crisps, chocolate, cereal bars
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Jam, marmalade, Marmite
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Ready-made custard packs
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Tomato and brown sauces
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Cooking oil
Household Essentials:
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Kitchen rolls
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Black bin bags (medium or large)
Toiletries & Hygiene Items:
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Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel
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Deodorant
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Toothpaste and toothbrushes
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Sanitary pads and tampons
Clothing & Warm Items:
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T-shirts, jumpers, coats
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Bottoms and pyjamas
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Shoes and socks
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Gloves
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Sleeping bags and tents
To donate, just bring your items to the collection point at Ravelin Reception before 10.00am on Friday 12 December.
Our team will take everything to The Life House on Friday 12 December. Every item, big or small, makes a real difference to someone’s day. Your contributions go directly to supporting local people who count on these services during the winter months.
Ravelin's Santa Fun Run
Join us for our annual Ravelin Santa Fun Run on Monday 8 December 2025. It’s a friendly 5k for all levels - you just need to be able to complete the distance. No one will be left behind. Faster runners can head out in front and loop back or stick with the group. It's free to take part, you just need to book before taking part.
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Monday 8 December 2025
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Meet at 12.25pm by the Christmas tree in Ravelin Reception
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Bring your running shoes and plenty of positive energy
Festive outfits are more than welcome. Ugly Christmas jumpers, costumes, Santa hats - whatever you’ve got, go crazy! If you're taking part, we have Santa Hats for everyone booked on, but feel free to bring your own. The best-dressed runner will win a special prize!
Christmas Jumper Day (and Week!)
Christmas Jumper Day is on Thursday 11 December, and we’d love everyone visiting Ravelin Sports Centre to wear their favourite festive jumper. It’s a simple way to spread cheer and brighten up the building during the cold winter days.
For our sports clubs, the fun lasts all week. From Monday 8 December to Sunday 14 December, we’re encouraging club members to wear their Christmas jumpers during their training sessions. It’s a great chance to laugh together, make memories, and show off your festive spirit.
Don’t forget to take a photo, share it on social media, and tag @RavelinSportsCentre. We’ll be keeping an eye out for the most creative and joyful outfits!
The festive season is about kindness, togetherness, and looking out for one another. Whether you’re donating through the Reverse Advent Calendar, joining in with festive jumpers, or running with us in Santa style, every effort helps spread joy and support those around us. We’re excited to see the Ravelin community come alive with kindness and festive spirit once again. Thank you for your generosity, and we can’t wait to see you get involved!