Fundraiser already benefiting from Christmas spirit

WATERFORD people are already digging deep and embracing the true spirit of Christmas. They are giving more than ever, as seen in the early days of fundraising for the 27th annual WLR FM Lions Club Christmas Appeal.

World War II veteran and peace and justice campaigner Brother Columbanus launched the appeal, a drive which will see the local radio station and community group combine to collect over €115,000 to be distributed by the Society of St Vincent de Paul in Waterford.

The appeal, which has collected well over €2.5 million for the less well off since its inception in 1979, features a host of fundraising events including an on-air auction which will run from December 20 to 22. The Mayor’s Auction will be broadcast on Sunday December 18.

The radio station will broadcast programmes from the former TSB bank branch on Barronstrand Street in Waterford and Grattan Square in Dungarvan during the lead-in to Christmas.

Employees across Waterford will also contribute to the appeal through collections and a competition that could see them win a week’s extra paid holidays.

Waterford Lions Club president Charlie Lapthorne said: “When an appeal has been running every year for such a long time, there would always be a risk of it running out of steam but we are always amazed and delighted by the generous response we get from people right across Waterford.”