A popular pub in Darlington has collected over 500 selection boxes for local causes in the hopes of bringing some Christmas joy to the less fortunate.
The Turks Head on Bondgate in the town centre had residents and customers donating the chocolate goodies which will be given to The Salvation Army and the children’s ward at Darlington Memorial Hospital.
Residents and customers donated the gifts and the pub has run various charity events over the last month including a Christmas party to raise funds to buy more.
Landlords Carl McDowell and Reece Haigh wanted to take the pressure off struggling families who may otherwise have not been able to offer their children anything for Christmas amid the cost-of-living crisis.
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Carl McDowell said: “I think for kids spending Christmas in hospital that’s obviously sad for them so we thought donating them to the children’s ward would make them feel like it’s more of a normal Christmas.
"Obviously, it’s a sad time for them because they don’t want to be there, especially at Christmas and they’re not in their usual surroundings so if it can cheer them up then that's a good thing.
“The Salvation Army help loads and loads of families and obviously with the cost of living and everything because so many people don’t have enough for presents and stuff so we thought they should have them (the selection boxes) and they can distribute them to the people who need them.
“I think there was 504 in the end and that was a big surprise. We thought we might get 150-200 but they just kept coming so it’s really good that so many people cared enough to donate.”
Mark Brooke, director of Proper Pubs, said: “At Admiral, we have always championed community pubs because we understand the value they bring to millions of people across the country. In the face of the cost-of-living crisis, people have recognised that pubs are more than just somewhere for people to go for a drink.
“They are hubs of activity for residents to enjoy and are places where people come together to support one another. It’s incredible to see this in action through this initiative, and even better to be able to provide a little treat to people this Christmas.”
Read next:
- Biggins & panto cast spread Christmas cheer at children's ward at Darlington Hospital
- Darlington pub celebrates five years of trading and thanks customers for loyalty
- Darlington restaurant to open on Christmas Day to help its local community
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