A West Belfast man has dedicated his time over the last three years to spread as much joy as possible over the Christmas period.
Martin Duffy, from Twinbrook, says after the birth of his daughter, they heard accounts of some families less fortunate. Taken back by what he heard, Martin decided he was going to try and help families in need around the festive period.
Now known as Uncle Duff, his Christmas appeal is in full swing, gathering toys for young children and vouchers for older children and teenagers, with the support of local businesses and sports clubs.
Read more: West Belfast community's mission to help kids this Christmas
Speaking to Belfast Live, he said: "This is the third year of doing Uncle Duff's Christmas appeal now. I wanted to help people who had kids, and were maybe feeling the pressure.
"From there, it's kind of grown into this Christmas appeal. I live in West Belfast but want to help people all over the city, It doesn't matter where they live. if I can help, I will.
"We've helping families in Antrim, the Shankill Road and East Belfast and that's with the kind help of others. People contact my page online and ask if they can donate, now I would usually ask for vouchers or toy donations rather than money. If I do get money, I'll go out and buy the things with that, whether it is the toys, or maybe gas or electric.
"I have to say, the support has been brilliant. Fight Academy Ireland, which is up in Poleglass, run a kids MMA show every year and usually raise a couple of hundred pound. With that money, I'll buy meat parcels with it. Big G’s Competitions also helps out by running raffles each year. He is very good.
"Kilwee Celts FC and Glendowan FC also have helped with this appeal as has M&M Gentlemansb Barbers, who are providing a drop off point for toys and then every hair cut on December 12, the money will be put towards our appeal. It is amazing."
Martin says Brook Leisure Centre is also a space in Belfast which can accept donations. A Christmas tree in the centre, has tags hanging on it, each tag with the age of a child on it, so that those in a position to, can remove the tag, and put a toy under the tree for that child.
"I just want to say a big thanks to everyone who has donated to this appeal. Without them, there would be no Uncle Duff's Christmas Appeal. No kid should go without at Christmas."
Please follow this link for more information on how to donate, or how to avail of Uncle Duff's support.
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