A woman from Bearsden is ensuring that her free Santa's grotto goes ahead this week despite her upcoming life-changing surgery.
Linda Dempster is making sure the underprivileged children in Possilpark will have a gift to open this Christmas . However, the 60-year-old is not only preparing a festive experience for those who need it most, she is also getting ready for major surgery next week.
The kind-heart cancer survivor, who is originally from Possilpark, won't let anything stop her giving back to the children - especially this year when people need it most.
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She told Glasgow Live: "I have my pre-op on Friday then a busy weekend.
"I then need to be in hospital on Wednesday to get a pacemaker fitted on my bowel. I had bowel cancer five years ago and I just got the all clear in May. I wouldn't cancel the Santa's grotto for the kids because they need it.
"I'm working around the clock to prepare for this. But even though my health isn't the greatest I need to do it for the kids. I could do without it but I want to do it. I can't let these kids down."
Although it is hard work for all involved, the 60-year-old believes every child needs to feel the magic of Christmas
Linda said: "I did it last year for 220 children who were deprived and their parents couldn't afford presents for them.
"We have a Santa come in and they have a five or 10 minute slot to come see the grotto.
"We'll be working from 10 am in the morning to half nine at night to make sure the kids enjoy it."
Although she now lives in Bearsden, Linda grew up in Possilpark and the area still holds a tight grip on her heart.
Providing children with a true festive experience at Comfort Zone on Stonyhurst Street is her way of given back to the community she adores.
The 60-year-old explained: "I love seeing the kids and the feeling they get when they come in.
"Each child is going away with a £10 to £15 present, they aren't going away with just a wee selection box.
"I've got 110 kids on Saturday and 100 on Sunday.
"With everything going on right now it is needed more than ever this year."
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