Myton’s Christmas gifts appeal brings joy

This appeal was collaborative working at its best

Age UK Northamptonshire has been bowled over by the generosity of employees of Myton Food Group at their factories in Thrapston and Rushden, staff at Morrisons Wellingborough store and shoppers at Rushden Lakes.  They have responded with big-hearted generosity to The Festive Gifts for the Elderly Christmas present appeal organised by Helen Elliott of Myton Food Group and Maxine Reeves of Rushden Lakes shopping centre.

Over a four-week period from 3rd November to 5th December a magnificent total of 185 gifts were donated by local people who wanted to bring some unexpected festive cheer lonely older people in Northamptonshire. This appeal was collaborative working at its best, spreading a wave of goodwill across the county.

“All of our colleagues have been amazing in supporting this appeal, as have our other partners: Age UK Northamptonshire, Rushden Lakes and Morrisons Wellingborough store. I know I speak for everyone when I say the most important thing is we've brought some cheers to those in our community and let them know we're thinking of them,” said Helen.

Age UK Northamptonshire’s Chief Executive Christopher Duff said “We are pleased to be able to pass these Christmas gifts on to some of our clients. They will be very touched to know that so many local people have supported this fantastic appeal.”

The gifts included 72 wrapped parcels collected at Rushden Lakes (including 30 beautiful little beauty sample bags), food boxes and some gifts from employees of Morrisons Wellingborough store and the rest donated by staff at the two Myton factories in Thrapston and Rushden. “So, all in all, a great example of collaborative working,” adds Helen.

On Thursday 18th December Helen made a special visit to Age UK Northamptonshire’s day centre in Kettering [pictured above] where she surprised several older people with an early Christmas present.

“Thank you to Age UK Northamptonshire as well because you are so important to get the gifts to the people who really need them, so we couldn't do it without you!” said Helen.