A retired couple have transformed into the “real-life” Mr and Mrs Claus this Christmas, in a bid to bring festive cheer to struggling families – with over 500 kids visiting them every year.
Jack Wilson and his wife, Janet, 65, began the selfless festive act five years ago when they decided to decorate their front garden with a DIY sleigh full of lights.
As families started to flock toward the display in admiration, the pair had another idea; to create a makeshift grotto and bring the Christmas spirit to those in need while dressed as the big man in red and his wife, Mrs Claus.
Now, they’ve spent over £1,000 on decorations and electricity bills to power the grotto, with friends, family and other companies stepping up to donate gifts to give to those struggling due to the cost of living crisis.
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“Over the last five years, it started with about 50 kids, now it’s up to 500,” Jack, aged 63, from Kilsyth, Scotland, told NeedToKnow.co.uk.
“This year is going to be our biggest yet, as we’ve been putting up posters asking for help with presents.
“Scotia Books donated over 1,000 books and even strangers have been turning up at our door dropping off sweets for the kids.
“It’s such an amazing feeling seeing their happy little faces, especially at this time of year knowing that many families can’t afford Christmas.”
At first, they put up a gazebo to host the grotto – but due to the wind and rain, this was quickly destroyed – and instead, they turned to transform their garden shed.
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In total, they spend one week adorning the small space with lights, snowflakes, a tree and Santa figurines.
This year, they’ve added three huge reindeers and lots of other decorations to truly make the whole event as magical as possible.
In a bid to give back, the couple ask for a small donation from each child – whether that’s money or food – to go toward their local food bank.
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He said: “Each year, they gave food hampers to families, as well as presents, for those who don’t have much to spare.
“In previous years, we’ve raised over £1,000 – but we’re hoping to be more successful this time around.”
From 28 November until 22 December, between 5pm and 8pm, the couple will wait with open arms to welcome children – no matter their age – and spread the festive spirit.
Jack added: “It’s my wife’s favourite time of the year and always puts a huge smile on her face, as everyone seems happier.
“She’s obsessed with Christmas – we’ve been watching festive films since October.
“We aim to make sure that kids who can’t afford to see Santa in these big grottos get a chance to do so, as we don’t ask for much in return.
“Because of the cost of living crisis, more kids keep turning up who don’t have anything in their stockings.
“It’s not about the money, and we don’t look at how much it’s cost us, it’s about putting a smile on children’s faces and helping out those less fortunate.
“I hope to bring joy and happiness to all – you could say I’m the ‘real life’’ Santa Claus.”
READ MORE: Challenging the Santa Tradition: Mum Faces Backlash for Honest Parenting
