WHEN it comes to raising money for worthy causes at Christmas-time the borough’s deputy mayor has got an idea that really will ‘sleigh ‘em’.
Each year at about this time, Atherleigh ward councillor Mark Aldred hangs up the day wear in favour of a big red suit, beard and boots in a bid to bring cheer to hundreds of children across the borough.
His ‘Door-to-door’ Santa service sees Cllr Aldred – aka Father Christmas – offering families their very own personal visit from the big man for a small fee.
“Every child we visit gets a present and a personal message from Santa,” says Cllr Aldred. “Last year we visited more than 600 children and raised £2,168.”
It costs £5 per child for a personal visit from Santa and there’s a minimum number of four children.
“It works best when parents invite their friends, relatives or neighbours’ children round to join in the fun,” he says. “It’s also ideal if you are having a party.”
All the money raised is donated to the Mayor of Wigan’s Charity Appeal (Reg Charity No 1114 354), which this year is for the Rainbow children’s ward at Wigan Infirmary.
The advice from Santa is ‘book now’ because it’s his busy time of year!
You can contact Santa or Mrs Claus (Mark’s wife Karen) on 01942 886452 (weekdays) and 01942 894262 (evenings and weekends). You can also e-mail santavisits@hotmail.co.uk
