Great Cornard mum determined to bring festive cheer to less fortunate children with West Suffolk Hospital Christmas present fund-raising appeal

A mum-of-three is determined to ensure those less fortunate can still enjoy a happy Christmas as she launches a festive fund-raiser for hospitalised children.

Courteney Long, of Great Cornard, set up a donations appeal on Friday to help deliver presents to youngsters spending this festive season at West Suffolk Hospital.

Proceeds from the appeal will pay for children’s toys, wrapping paper and selection boxes, which will be delivered to the hospital by Santa and his helpers in the lead-up to Christmas.

Courteney has also shared an online wish-list via Amazon, allowing supporters to directly purchase toys for the appeal.

It is the latest Christmas initiative spearheaded by the Raydon Way resident and her family, having supported Macmillan Cancer Support and a number of food banks in recent years.

She said the inspiration for her charity endeavours camewhile watching a documentary about children in poverty with her oldest son, Hugo.

“I want to teach my children that not everyone is as blessed as them,” said Courteney.

“A few years ago, I was watching a documentary on television about children who were only eating when they got their school meal and were going to bed hungry.

“My son watched it with me and was asking about a hundred questions. I explained to him that some children don’t have what he has.

“It broke his heart, so he wanted to make sure children don’t go hungry. We raised money for 50 food hampers for families of four. Since then, we’ve done something different each year.

“We wouldn’t be able to do any of this without all the support we get. It means the world to me, Hugo and the charities we support.

“Even if people can’t afford to donate, they can spread the word by sharing it on Facebook and social media.

“It really does bring the community together. I’ve had so many volunteers saying they would be happy to be Santa and his elves.”

To contribute, go online to www.gofundme.com/f/children-in-hospital-receive-a-gift-from-santa-this-year.

Courteney also paid tribute to businesses who were hosting collection buckets for the cause.

They include Franco’s Restaurant in Sudbury, the Lamarsh Lion pub, Truth Nightclub, Swim2Swim, Rubix Nightclub, and Silk Road Bar & Lounge.

With their help, the appeal has raised more than £250 in donations.