Shirebrook and Warsop: Santa raises a smile with Christmas gifts

Hundreds of kids in the two towns were given early festive treats of selection boxes by Father Christmas.

In return, parents were invited to make a donation towards the cost of future events by organisers Shirebrook, Warsop and District Rotary Club.

First Santa - member Ted Smith - journeyed through the streets of Warsop last Thursday night to give out the first batch of presents and collected £95.

And then on Friday morning he moved on to Shirebrook’s market place where a further 750 parcels were handed out to delighted youngsters and £260 was raised.

“It just seems to get better and better every year and it’s something that I and the other Rotarians involved really enjoy,” said Mr Smith.

“It’s great to see the community coming together at Christmas time - and great that we have received so many voluntary donations, because it helps improve what we can offer year on year.

“Another colleague at the rotary club used to play the role of Santa, but I stepped in one year when he couldn’t do it and he’s never got his job back!

“The smiles on the faces of the kids when they get their presents is terrific and I think people really appreciate it.”

The success of the events in Shirebrook and Warsop mean the rotary club are now looking to hold a third in neighbouring Mansfield Woodhouse next year.

Mr Smith added: “To our knowledge, there is nothing like this is Mansfield Woodhouse, so it would be lovely if we can make it happen there too.”

For more pictures, see this week’s edition of the Mansfield Chad.