Ruddi’s Retreat: Cleckheaton video production company behind viral Christmas advert partners with Huddersfield children’s cancer charity

Sam Teale Productions has made the emotional advert for Ruddi’s Retreat, which provides children and families that are living with cancer, life-limiting illness or bereavement, with a respite break at one of their caravans in Filey.

The charity was inspired by the journey of Ruddi Waterworth, who was just six months old when he was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer. After undergoing intense treatment, he and his family were gifted a respite break that gave them precious time together away from hospitals.

Experiencing how valuable that holiday was, Ruddi’s mum, Ali, went on to establish the charity so that other families facing similarly life changing situations could access the same opportunity.

The charity now operates five specially adapted caravans in Filey and has supported more than 4,500 families from across the UK. Each break offers the chance to step away from treatment schedules and emotional strain, giving families time to rest, reconnect and create memories that last a lifetime.

This year’s Christmas advert, thanks to Sam Teale Productions, brings that mission to life. Filmed locally and inspired by real experiences, it shows how small acts of kindness can make an enormous difference during the hardest moments.

The film, which premiered on Thursday (November 20), captures the spirit of Ruddi’s Retreat, offering families a special time when they need it most and showing the lasting impact that simple, meaningful support can have.

Ali said: “We wanted to let more people know that during what is possibly the worst time of their lives, we can provide a special time for them, just like Christmas.

“My charity is small but the impact it makes is huge. Sometimes it is the smallest gestures that create the memories people hold on to.”

Ali met Sam and his team at an event earlier this year and felt strongly that their approach and enthusiasm aligned with the charity’s values.

“Sam’s infectious enthusiasm made me smile,” she said. “We wanted to lift the charity’s profile, keep things local and work with a team that understood our heart.”

The production company, which is known for its emotionally driven Christmas adverts, including the The GoKart which went viral in 2022, worked closely with the charity to capture the essence of what Ruddi’s Retreat offers.

The result is a powerful, shareable film designed to inspire action and connect with both local communities and wider audiences.

Ruddi’s Retreat hopes viewers come away with a renewed appreciation for the work of small

charities.

“We want people to see that small charities make a big difference without the enormous price tags that larger organisations carry,” Ali explained.

The charity, which is based in Slaithwaite, Huddersfield, is encouraging donations to its Ruddi’s Reindeer campaign, which ensures more children can experience the magic of Christmas.

Supporters can donate directly through the charity’s website or by visiting the Ruddi’s Retreat shop in Slaithwaite, where all profits from their well-known cakes go straight back into funding family breaks.

A real life story that reflects Ruddi’s impact can be viewed on the charity’s website: https://www.ruddisretreat.org/about/where-are-we-now

To support Ruddi’s Reindeer campaign and help more families enjoy the magic of Christmas, you can donate at: https://www.ruddisretreat.org/donate Or visit the Ruddi’s Retreat shop in Slaithwaite.