A man from Newry is getting ready for his 31st consecutive year of taking part in a charity sit-out to raise funds for a local hospice.
John Dalzell OBE, 80, will celebrate his 81st birthday the same way he has done for the past 31 years, by sitting in his trailer on Hill Street fundraising for Southern Area Hospice.
For over 30 years, John has dedicated his time to sitting out in a trailer and collecting money for the hospice in the run up to Christmas, usually in the coldest weather when almost everyone else is buying and wrapping presents.
Read more: Lisburn Christmas parade faces axe in favour of light show
He has gathered a whole team to help, known as the 'sit-out team', and together they collect every Christmas across Newry, while John retains his usual spot in his famous trailer at Marcus Square on Hill Street.
As the years go on, John's sit-out duration has increased, with his plans to sit out this year for two weeks from December 10 until December 24, from 8am until 5pm each day.
Speaking about this year's fundraiser, John said: "I really don’t know where the years have gone, they have flown by and now I really cannot imagine Christmas without collecting for the Hospice.
"Many people thought I would stop last year when I was 80 – but I have no notion of it. I will be there every Christmas for as long as I am able, to help the local people who need the Hospice.
"Last year we had the big milestone of my 80th birthday and the team celebrating 30 years of the sit-out and I wondered how we could beat that. Then I realised this year is special too because it’s another year where I am fit to continue and I know that the money we raise will really help the Hospice, and at the end of the day that’s what it’s really all about.
"Some year I won’t be able to do it – but hopefully that’s not this year! So, if you see me or my team about the town give us a shout – when it’s cold and wet you are what keeps us going. Looking forward to seeing you all at Christmas."
Fundraising Officer for the Hospice, James McCaffrey, who works with John and his team said: "I have known John some years now and it is no surprise to me that he has decided to continue with his wonderful sit-out for yet another year.
"John and his dedicated sit-out team are an incredible example of the spirit of giving at Christmas. The amount of time and effort that they put into this collection for the Hospice each year is truly amazing, and it is an honour to work alongside them.
"Last year, John surpassed his target of £2 million raised for our cause. On behalf of all the patients and their families and friends who have been touched by our services, I would like to sincerely thank John and his team, and everyone who continues to support them.
"Although the sit-out takes place from the 10th-24th December, John works all year round to ensure it happens and this year more than ever, he has overcome extra obstacles so that we don’t lose out on the substantial amount he raises”
As well as John’s sit-out on Hill Street, collections will take place around the town at Fiveways Shopping Complex, The Quays Shopping Centre and B&Q.
If you would like to donate to this appeal in aid of Southern Area Hospice Services please visit John’s Sit Out on Hill Street or to one of his collectors around the town, donate online by clicking here.
READ NEXT:
- Belfast cafe's Christmas toy appeal as demand for help is 'off the charts'
- Maghaberry community offers Christmas warmth in cold cost of living crisis
- Northern Ireland Fire Rescue issues warning after recent house fire deaths
- Popular places for a festive 'Christmas chip' in NI
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.
