Stamford charity prize draw will give gifts that aren’t from Santa

Evergreen Care Trust is putting the sparkle back into Christmas with a fantastic draw with 25 top prizes to be won.

Despite all the usual annual buzz, Christmas can be a lonely time for many older people, with no family festive meal or presents to open. For the second year running, Evergreen is setting out to show that our community cares enough to buy them a gift — and everyone can get involved.

A winning raffle ticket will be drawn every day from December 1 to 25 in this advent calendar-style draw, with prizes worth up to £1,000 donated by generous local businesses. And as every winning ticket is returned to the draw, supporters have the chance to win numerous times.

Prizes range from a ladies’ bicycle to an off-road Land Rover driving experience, gents haircuts to cosmetic treatments, and products and services from local creative artisans.

“This fun and festive campaign shows the strength in our local community that enables us to treat over 400 lonely elderly people to a thoughtful gift,” said Christmas Cracker coordinator Emma Holttum.

“The generosity of local independent businesses is what make it possible for us to run this campaign, offering residents the chance to win some pretty amazing prizes but most importantly putting the sparkle back into Christmas for our members!”

Tickets, costing £5 each, will be available from sponsors Sowden Wallis Estate Agents on Star Lane, Stamford.

Businesses are encouraged to buy tickets for members of staff as work incentive/rewards, and community groups are invited to sell tickets among staff, volunteers and supporters. For more information on Evergreen’s Christmas Cracker, visit www.stamfordchristmascracker.co.uk or call Evergreen Care Trust on 01780 765900.

Our picture shows Emma Holttum, left, with Emma Sowden and Tom Wallis, from Sowden Wallis - one of the businesses backing the appeal.