Local firms and councillors chip in to bring festive joy for vulnerable youngsters

Over 70 looked-after and vulnerable children from Monmouthshire will benefit from a Christmas gift thanks to generous festive gestures by a number of parties.

The council's Children's Services team organised the scheme.

Susie Gardner of the GL Vets group – a veterinary recruitment service based in Chepstow - met councillors at County Hall on Thursday 14th December underneath the council's Christmas tree to donate a large amount of presents.  With her was Martin Lewis of the St Joseph's Caldicot Amateur Boxing Club.  The presents were funded by a partnership between the firm and boxing club which organised sponsorship to challenge willing participants to reach a total of 10,000 burpees – an intense exercise combining push-ups and squat jumps into one physically demanding activity.

Susie said: "I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part in the challenge from Gardner Llewelyn Vet Recruitment and St Joseph's Caldicot Amateur Boxing Club, and to all who donated, especially before Christmas when money can be tight.  It was great to be involved.  I was delighted that we could buy some lovely gifts for children among the most vulnerable."

Also contributing to the festive gesture was the Swansea-based Facility Services Group (FSG) which donated a substantial sum to ensure a number of children receive a present, as well as councillors led by Monmouthshire's cabinet member for social care, safeguarding and health, Councillor Penny Jones.

Councillor Jones said: "I'm very, very grateful for the wonderful presents received thanks to an amazing community contribution by GL Vets, Caldicot's boxing club and FSG.  These gifts will bring a smile to the faces of our most vulnerable children."

"I was also delighted to work with fellow councillors who purchased and wrapped gifts for specific children and young people.  I'm thankful for the help provided by councillors Sara Jones and Lisa Dymock who worked hard to coordinate this initiative and ensure its success."

Members of the Children's Services team were overwhelmed with the support received and are looking forward to delivering the gifts around the county in the week before Christmas.