Hundreds celebrate with Christmas stockings in Yarmouth

For the sixth year in a row, Football Against Dementia has been rallying support from businesses across the borough all in an effort to provide struggling families with some festive treats and presents donated by many people in the area.

Football Against Dementia's Trevor Saunders said this year's turnout had been exceptional.

Trevor Saunders at the Christmas Stocking Campaign's giveaway at The Empire. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)"I would not want to do Father Christmas' job full-time," he said.

"We've seen many people who are in genuine need.

"It is sad to see so many families struggling - particularly at this time of year - but it gives me great pride to see a lot of people coming together to spread some Christmas cheer. We really couldn't have done it without all the businesses and groups by our side."

Volunteers with a family at event held inside The Empire. Picture - Football Against Dementia (Image: Football Against Dementia)Mother of four Emma Hurley came along to The Empire on Thursday morning, where she and her family were greeted with chocolates, mince pies and smiling faces.

Ms Hurley was gifted a Christmas stocking containing some essential festive items, and her children were able to handpick a present from the campaign's elves.

"This really helps us as a family to get in the Christmas mood," said Ms Hurley.

Emma Hurley (second-right) with her daughter, Krystal, Danny and baby Danny. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)"We've really struggled this year and with money being so short, this is the first time my children have done anything Christmassy this year. I am just grateful.

"This just helps to take the strain off a little bit."

Sharon Fiske (right) with one of the campaign's elves. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)Sharon Fiske, who collected some stockings for her family, said she was thankful for all the volunteers.

"Many families struggle to find real joy at this time of year," she said.

"But this is a really jolly thing all the volunteers are doing and it helps so much."

Claire Lynch and Leanne Lake from ODE Asset Management. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)This year's Christmas Stocking Campaign has been supported by the recently established Great Yarmouth Town CIC, Gorleston Morrison's, ODE Asset Management, Aviva, K Foley Ltd and Norfolk County Council's Children's Services.

Hundreds of Christmas stockings were filled as part of this year's campaign. Picture - Football Against Dementia (Image: Football Against Dementia)Santa's elves were on hand to greet families at the culmination of this year's Christmas stocking campaign. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)