THERE was a full-on festive atmosphere at hospitals in mid and south Essex as they switched on their Christmas tree lights.

The lights switch on helped spread a much-needed wave of festive warmth and cheer across Basildon, Broomfield and Southend hospitals – all part of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.

At Basildon Hospital, a four-year-old patient from Grays, Avery Brake, who is being treated for leukaemia, switched on the lights, surrounded by hospital staff from various departments. Whilst, at Southend Hospital, the lights were turned on by patient Millie Farr, a three-year-old from Foulness Island.

Jaxon, Avery, Tayler, and Elliott Brake

This was followed by the hospital Chaplains blessing the tree and a series of Christmas carols to bring the switch on to a close.

Avery’s mum, Tayler, said: “When we came into the hospital today, the Oncology nurse told us that they want Avery to switch on the lights. It has really cheered her up – little things like this means the most.”

Millie Farr with family

Millie’s mum Jay said: “It's such a real privilege for Millie to turn the lights on, we spend a lot of time on Neptune ward and they're all so incredible.”