Kind-hearted colleagues at Chertsey and Walton-on-Thames ambulance stations have donated a big delivery of presents to their local children’s hospice.
The festive gift collection was organised by student paramedic Tiffany Milner who, in the absence of Santa’s sleigh, loaded up her family’s X-Trail with more than 80 toys and games, helped by her husband Ben.
“All the presents have now been delivered to a very grateful team at Shooting Star Children’s Hospice in Hanworth, who will be wrapping everything and passing the gifts on to the children and families,” she said. “A huge thank you to everyone at Walton and Chertsey ambulance stations for coming together and collecting so many gifts for the children’s hospice.
“Your generosity, kindness and willingness to pull together means more than you know. You’ve made a real difference to families going through incredibly tough times, and your support will bring so much joy and comfort this Christmas.”
Colleagues seized the opportunity to provide some festive cheer for children who need it most. Part of the Chertsey team normally run a Secret Santa, but all decided to donate gifts to the hospice appeal instead.
“The response was overwhelming. Tiffany and the team deserve full credit for the efforts they’ve made in arranging this,” said Sam Garman, Operations Manager at Chertsey.
Having worked in SECAmb for three years, it’s the first time Tiffany has organised anything like this and she plans to do it again next year.
“Everyone has been amazing. I want to thank them for showing what teamwork, compassion and our service is truly about,” Tiffany added.
A spokesperson for the hospice said: “Thank you so much for the present delivery – we really appreciate your support.”