The festive spirit is returning to Wigan as local plasterer Tony Taylor and his family prepare for the annual Christmas Gifts for Kids event, set to take place on Saturday 22nd November.
What started as a solo effort to raise money for local charities has blossomed into a large community initiative supporting children in care, care leavers, and the homeless.
Tony, alongside his wife, daughters, mum, brother, sister-in-law, nephew, cousins, friends, and neighbours, organises a 5k fancy dress walk through Wigan, collecting donations for local causes along the way.
Participants often carry banners explaining the cause and hand out treats, while a large speaker plays festive music, to make sure everyone knows they’re coming.
The event is designed to include everyone. Those who can’t take part often line the route at their front doors to cheer, wave, and hand out donations as the walkers pass by.
This community involvement adds to the festive atmosphere and ensures that even those unable to join physically can contribute to the cause.
Last year’s walk, which saw Tony dressed as Willy Wonka handing out chocolate bars (some hiding golden tickets for prizes and party entry), raised a whopping £6,500, all of which was spent on gifts for Wigan Care Services, The Brick, and essentials for homeless people and their pets.
The walk begins at The Pavilion in Hindley, passing through Ince, Darlington Street, Spring View, and Platt Bridge, before returning to The Pavilion around 4pm.
Following the walk, an After Party will run until 10:30pm, hosted by The Pavilion and Hindley ARLC, with tickets priced at £6 for adults and £2.50 for children — including food. Even those joining just for the fancy dress walk are encouraged to donate the ticket price to the cause.
In the six weeks leading up to the event, the organisers are accepting donations of Christmas gifts for ages 0–18 and care leavers, with drop-off details to be announced on their social media pages. Tony personally sorts the gifts and makes sure they are delivered in time for Christmas.
The organisers hope that, with wider awareness, even more local residents will join the walk, cheer from their doorsteps, or get involved with donations. “The more the merrier,” says Tony. “It’s a long day, but so much fun — and it’s all for a fantastic cause.”
For updates, donation drop-off points, and ticket information, search for Christmas Gifts for Kids on Facebook.
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