A well-known Dundee graffiti artist has transformed a Stobswell unit to provide a Santa’s grotto to help families in need of support this Christmas.
Syke worked his magic on the North Pole Post Office, with members of the Stobswell Forum pledging to do more than ever to help people living in poverty.
The Albert Street shop has been turned into a Santa’s Grotto, ready for visits on the first three Saturdays in December.
Before then, it will be used as a festive hub for the forum, as they launch their biggest ever Christmas appeal.
Colin Clement, chairman of the forum, says the aim is to make sure everyone can enjoy a happy Christmas without having to worry too much about the cost.
He said: “We’re well known for our community spirit in Stobswell, and that’s never more important than during the festive season.
“We’ll be putting on a series of events to brighten up the neighbourhood.
“However, perhaps even more central to our values, we’re also running our annual Christmas appeal.”
He added: “We know this winter will be a particularly tricky time for a lot of folks, so we’d ask everyone locally to do what they can to help out those with less.
“We hope we can not only ensure every child has a parcel under the tree but we also want to provide lots of festive fun in the area.
“We know money will be tight for many families this Christmas, especially in Stobswell, so we are aiming to provide plenty to do right here so parents don’t have to take their children into the city centre, which can bring lots of added expense.”
North Pole Post Office and Santa’s Grotto in Stobswell taking donations
Forum members are asking for donations including:
- Toys
- Gifts for teenagers
- Blankets and hot water bottles
- Coats, hats, scarves and gloves
- Toiletries and gift sets
- Non-perishable food items
- Nappies and baby supplies.
Donations can be taken to the post office, the communities office at Arthurstone Library, Morgan Academy or any of the local business who are supporting the appeal.
Anyone in the area who needs help over the festive period can contact Val Kane, in confidence, on 07702 834968 or val.kane@dundeecity.gov.uk
Graffiti artist Syke ‘delighted’ to help
Artist Syke said he was delighted to be able to help.
He said: “I’ve been involved with the Christmas shop for the Stobswell Forum the last couple of years.
“It’s a fun project that is all about community.”
Local councillor Lynne Short said: “Each year the Stobswell Forum goes above and beyond to provide some hope and love across the community.
“To see them rally and show that in this world of uncertainty that there are people that care and want to deliver is so important.
“We can’t promise Christmas miracles but hopefully we can promise some Christmas cheer.”
What’s on this Christmas in Stobswell?
- A concert at Morgan Academy on Thursday December 1 from 5-6.15pm
- Light shows (with complementary hot food and drinks) at Baxter Park on December 6 and Malcolm Street on December 13
- North Pole Post Office/Santa’s Grotto will be open on Saturdays between November 26 and December 17 from 10am-2pm, with Santa meets between 11am and 1pm on those days.
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