Julie Burton from Christmas Sparkle shares all in column

Gill and I have been friends since our children were small.

As a team we all fill different roles.

As I am retired and living very locally I tend to step in for urgent errands.

Last minute collections/drop offs and emergency shopping trips when presents for specific age groups run low.

I also coordinate with a local charity shop.

Because we are only able give brand new gifts, anything that is not quite suitable is passed on so that every donation is used to benefit children in the area.

It is a wonderful team to be part of.

We all muck in to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Our festive wrapping events are filled with lovely people, festive music and mince pies, if you haven’t yet made it to one please do come along, there is always a warm welcome.

The generosity of local people and business who donate gifts, money, and give up their time each year is heartwarming, and of course the most rewarding part of the project is knowing that you have made a difference and brought smiles to many faces on Christmas morning.