Operation Santa is calling everyone in Caerphilly County Borough

Operation Santa is aiming to support over 650 children in Caerphilly county borough by arranging a special visit by Father Christmas. These children are not helped by any other appeal and have been nominated by social workers who work with families across the county borough. Operation Santa is also pleased this year to be helping families who are working with Women's Aid and Home-start.

"Now its up to the public to make this work, last year over 5000 presents were pledged by generous people and businesses, we're hoping for a similar response this year. Although because of the way Christmas falls this year we are starting much earlier", said Operation Santa Co-ordinator Rosemary Mathews who's normal role is the Communications Manager for the council. My colleagues and I all give our time freely to make sure this appeal meets the needs of all these youngsters, it is a pleasure to be involved in such a worthwhile project. The collection centres which include local businesses as well as council locations are also a vital part of the project and a big thank goes to them for their support."

She continued "This year we have a number of local schools making up hampers for the older teenagers who live alone and this is such a great project for them to understand not everyone can celebrate Christmas in a family home."

Rosemary outlined how people can get involved "It is really easy all you have to do during the next two weeks is either ring the Pledge hotline 01443 866577 or e-mail Operation Santa and pledge to buy a present for a child, we respond immediately to your email.

You will be able to choose the age and gender of the child you would like to support. You will also be able to select a geographical area to send your present. All we ask is the presents to be new for health and safety reasons. Please make your pledge by 6th November and deliver your gift to one of our collection centres situated across the county borough by Friday 4th December.

Collection Centres

• Harper and Wallis, Estate Agent, Hanbury Road, Bargoed.
• Blackwood Library, Blackwood.
• Barclays Bank, Ystrad Mynach.
• Caerphilly County Borough Council, Penallta House, Ystrad Mynach.
• Lloyds TSB Bank, Rhymney.
• Visit Caerphilly Centre, The Twyn, Caerphilly.
• Caerphilly Garden Centre, Penrhos, Nantgarw, Caerphilly.
• Risca Family Centre, Brookland Road, Risca.