The Elf Express Christmas Kindness Appeal delivered more than 1,000 donated gifts to people and families in need across South Devon.

Newton Abbot citizens may have been bemused to see what looked like a convention of elves congregating by the town clock tower on the last Saturday before Christmas. In fact, it was the culmination of months of effort by volunteers determined to kick 2020 where it hurts!

‘We nearly abandoned our regular Christmas charity appeal due to the difficulties of operating through Covid restrictions,’ said Lindie Whitfield, CEO of local charity Wellbeing in Action, ‘but we were determined not to give in at a time when more people than ever are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing.’

The charity, which aims to prevent and remove the causes of harm to wellbeing and mental health through social action volunteering in the community, issued an appeal asking the public to nominate people who have particularly struggled this year.

‘Nominations came in for families in acute poverty, elderly people who are lonely and isolated, women attempting to rebuild their lives after fleeing domestic violence, people struggling with bereavement and children living with a life limiting illness or caring for disabled parents – the stories we received were humbling,’ said Emma Warren, senior co-ordinator.

Next came the appeal to find just the right gifts for the nominees. Teignbridge Council Indoor Markets team came forward with a market stall to create a public gift drop-off point. Each gift bag was personalised and the finishing touch included a gift tag with a message of friendship and hope from a member of the community.

After a momentous week of sorting and wrapping, it was time to get the bells polished and a small army of volunteer elves in full costume, set off into the community to surprise some very excited children and emotional people with their very special gifts.

‘It was so rewarding to see the look of surprise, emotion and happy tears at the doorsteps, and when some of the children thought we were real elves and literally danced with excitement, it made my day,’ said Derek Weeks, volunteer for Wellbeing in Action.

The Merry Kindmas project continues right through the week as Wellbeing in Action have teamed up with charity CassPlus and Alfi Dean, the inspiring young founder of The Babbacome Pantry, to deliver Family Christmas Dinner boxes to families in need across South Devon.

‘It’s been an incredible project to lead,’ reflected Lindie Whitfield, but most importantly, this is not about giving charity or taking people’s pride – it’s a two-way transaction of friendship and decency. We all have times when we need a hand, and we all have times when we can extend one. Wellbeing in Action simply create the opportunities for people to do both.’