46 fearless fundraisers faced the challenge of either walking across scorching coals or a path of sharp Lego bricks at its Fire and Lego Walk at the Chelmsford Takeover event on Saturday, April 12th, in Chelmsford’s Bond Street.

The event has raised close to £10,000 in sponsorship for Little Havens, with donations still pouring in. As the children’s hospice for Essex, Little Havens provides vital care to babies, children, and young people living with complex or incurable conditions. Events like the Fire and Lego Walk, along with the generosity of the local community, make it possible for the hospice to continue its essential care.

One of the participants in the Lego Walk event knows firsthand the difference Little Havens makes to local families. Five-year-old Dexter Clarke-Duggan, from Maldon, bravely walked over a path of Lego for the hospice.

Dexter was diagnosed with B-Cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in May 2023, just after his third birthday. Little Havens, based in Benfleet, has been providing specialist support for the family since Dexter’s diagnosis.

When Dexter’s mother saw the Lego Walk advertised on social media, she knew instantly that it was the perfect opportunity for him to give back to the hospice that had given him so much. Aimee said, “Dexter loves Little Havens, and he loves Lego, so it seemed like a perfect match. He was so excited about the idea of raising money for his friends at Little Havens.”

Speaking after the event, she said: “He was so excited all morning, then the nerves kicked in once we arrived, but lots of his friends turned up to show their support and cheer him on, which really helped. Hearing everyone chanting ‘Dexter’ made me so emotional. He’s been through so much these last two years and to see him there, with all the other children, taking on this challenge, brought tears to my eyes.

“We are all so proud of Dexter completing the challenge, particularly as he was the youngest there and still on active cancer treatment. We’re also blown away by the donations he’s received. To raise over £1,200 is just absolutely incredible! He’s so pleased with what he’s achieved. Knowing other families will benefit from this, just like we have, is such a lovely feeling.”

Clair Givan, the charity’s Senior Social Worker, was among those who braved the Fire Walk to give back to the charity she works for. She said, “It was such an amazing opportunity to be able to complete the Fire Walk and spend time at the Chelmsford Takeover, all in aid of Little Havens. The atmosphere throughout was wonderful, and everyone seemed to be having such a great time. When it was time for the Fire Walk, I felt really supported by the facilitators, the team at Havens Hospices and other ‘fire walkers’ – everyone was so kind and encouraging. The enthusiasm and cheers from the crowds made sure everyone made it across the hot coals!

“I was very excited, and I’m thankful to have the opportunity to be involved in an event that was very inclusive of differing needs, as marathons and long walks are not for me! It felt great to be part of the efforts to support Little Havens and the amazing work we do to support babies, children, young people and their families in our community.”

Essex-based Havens Hospices, the charity which Little Havens is a part of, holds several fundraising events and challenges throughout the year which raise vital funds towards its care. The children’s hospice needs to raise more than £83,000 a week to be there for everyone who needs them.

From walking and running events to wing walks, skydives, and overseas treks, there’s something for every supporter. For more information, visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/events

Published 16th April 2025