A nursing associate who turns into a ‘real-life’ elf during the holiday season has revealed the challenges involved in being Santa’s little helper.
Lisa Tomlinson-Cowie, who is an avid member of a local theatre group, is “obsessed” with Christmas and often plays a role in pantomimes and musicals around the festive holiday.
Working as a nursing associate, her role can become very “demanding” and the 47-year-old longed for a break from her day-to-day life.
But then, she got a call from a fellow theatre member who asked if she would be interested in being a Christmas elf in an upcoming event – and now, she’s spreading joy while dubbing the side gig “The National Elf Service”.
“I couldn’t wait to dive right back into what I loved doing – and with a touch of festive magic too,” Lisa, from Stockton-on-Tees, told What’s The Jam.
“I’m now a real-life elf and my colleagues at work can’t believe it.
“My two kids, who adore Christmas, were also very excited to hear about their mum’s work as Santa’s little helper.”
Lisa now spends her weekends dressed up in a red, green and white costume, paired with rosy cheeks and her hair in plaits.
She’s been tasked with spreading the cheer and spirit around a nearby farm, where she entertains children and directs traffic to the hot chocolate stall.
And she’s even scored a role in the workshop.
She said: “I have to teach the children how to make stuffed toys and there’s a whole assembly line, just like in the films.
“I do struggle sometimes with improvising, as there’s a lot of on-the-spot thinking to keep the magic alive, but I’m learning to embrace it.”
Lisa has no plans on stopping the “secret” role and hopes to play out her duties as an elf for many years to come.
The mum added: “I have such an eagerness to spread holiday cheer and embody the spirit of the season.
“I might be a nurse by day, but I’m a proud elf come winter – and it’s just as rewarding.”
