Pop star McFly’s lead guitarist, Danny Jones from Bolton and former Strictly Come Dancing star, Oti Mabuse, have recreated childhood Christmas photos - including one of the toy that inspired Danny to join a band.
The festive photos see the duo pose with cherished toys from ‘Christmas past’ - a retro pink telephone, and a rock n’ roll miniature electric guitar as part of a campaign to help children who may not otherwise receive anything in their stocking this Christmas.
Rock and Blues-loving Danny grew up in Bolton and studied for a BTEC National Diploma in music at Bury College before finding fame in chart topping band McFly.
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He said: “As a parent, I can‘t imagine my son not having anything to open on Christmas morning. You can’t undervalue the importance of kids playing - it only takes one small toy - in my case, a toy guitar - to inspire something bigger. It’s a hugely important campaign, and I’m privileged to be a part of it.”
Oti and Danny will also be donating new and unopened versions of the toys featured in the snaps. The pair are working together to rally the nation to donate to Lidl Bear’s Toy Bank in its final two weeks.
Customers can drop off new or unopened toys, games and books in more than 940 Lidl stores across the country, until December 16, these will then be given to needy local children. Lidl will also donate 1 million meals and has committed £250k to charities, community groups and food banks over the Christmas period.
Oti Mabuse said: “Initiatives like Lidl Bear’s Toy Bank really mean a lot. You never know how big an impact toys can have on a child - even if you don't know them. No matter how big or small, all donations will provide joy over Christmas - so please donate if you can.”
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