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A man from Preston is helping Santa this year by delivering gifts to children in hospital.
Michael McGuiness, also known as Mikey, will be visiting the Children’s Ward at Royal Preston Hospital this Sunday (15 December) dressed as The Grinch.
He has been working with a group of others, including Byron Highton who turned on Preston’s Christmas lights after winning Blog Preston’s City Star competition, to help make Christmas Day special for those unable to celebrate conventionally.
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Through social media, they have been receiving nominations of hero children who have faced challenges and shown bravery this year. The festive team plan to surprise them with gifts which will be delivered on Christmas Day.
They have been doing it for three years now and Mikey said he couldn’t do it without the support he has on Facebook.
He said: “Honestly, it feels absolutely amazing. It’s just the appreciation of some children, the smiles and how happy they are.
“It’s so heartwarming. I’ve had children cry, I’ve had it all, I’ve had families cry.”
On top of that, they’ll also be hosting a free fancy dress Christmas party at Deepdale Labour Club on 21 December.
There will be activities for children, live gift draws and games with all money raised going towards the appeal.
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Mikey became involved after deciding he wanted to turn his life around when he came out of prison.
He added: “I’ve not had the best upbringing. When I was a young boy I was always in trouble.
“I’ve been out of prison for seven years now and never been in trouble since.
“I just wanted to change my life around. When I got out this time I thought I need to change my life around and try to help people, I’ve never looked back.”
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Mikey and Byron often team up with others in the community, including Charlene Rowe who runs Brekkie N Beyond in Ribbleton.
On Christmas Day she will be providing free meals for families struggling to afford it in the city.
The cafe is also a donation point for the appeal. Customers can bring in toys and money which will all go towards The JJ Effect Christmas Child and Family Need cause.
Additional reporting by Ellie Browning.
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