For the past few years , I’ve been fundraising during the festive season to help important local and national charities with their efforts to support those in need. Christmas can be especially challenging for those struggling financially, for those with ill health or mental health issues, and those experiencing loss, loneliness and isolation.

In previous years, I’ve run my Christmas Cheer jokeathon throughout December and into early January, broadcasting LIVE on my Facebook page at 7pm each evening with banter and the worst festive jokes imaginable, wiht costumes thrown in for good measure .

This year, as last, willbe a little different (while I figure out a better way forward for future years). Some of you will know that I very suddenly and unexpectedly lost my darling wife, Kim, in July 2024. She was my sidekick and an essential part of Christmas Cheer - and that’s something I just can‘t replicate. But, with the help of family and friends, I’ll be posting daily joke videos, livestreaming as and when I can, and sharing festive content to bring you cheer througout the festive season. I’ll also include some snippets of Christmas Cheers Past with Kim and I at our hilarious best.

I once again dedicate this year‘s fundraiser to her - and do it in honour and memory of her and her beautiful soul. ♥️✨

So, please follow our antics, and brace yourself for the groanworthy humour 😉, on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/christmascheer2025

This year’s two charities are Sefton Community Pantry and Papyrus.

1. The Pantry works with local schools to support vulnerable people and families with things such as food parcels, hygiene packs and winter coats for children. They also enable these families to have a Christmas that would otherwise be impossible. 🎄

This year has been their toughest yet, with the cost of living really impacting their donations and their ability to support the increasing number of famiies in need. Every penny we raise for them will help out food on the table and provide essentials for those who need it most.

2. PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. Suicide is the biggest killer of people aged 35 and under in the UK, and many of these could be prevented with the right help and support.

Papyrus is charity is very to close to my heart, having known and loved people affected by suicide. It’s also something that has affected my local community very deeply over the past couple of years, and it would be an honour to support the awareness-raising and fundraising efforts of their families and friends. 💚💜