Santa Claus made an early stop off to surprise children from Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School in Gravesend, with a little help – and a river ride – from the Port of London Authority, allowing Rudolph to rest up for the work ahead.
Pupils from years 2 and 3 came along to a festively decorated Town Pier in Gravesend, where the festival fun, craft, and Christmas carols took on an extra level of excitement when Father Christmas arrived on a PLA harbour service boat, to hand out some early Christmas presents.
Robin Mortimer, CEO of the PLA, said:
“As the UK’s biggest port, bringing in yuletide essentials and presents from around the world, the Port of London helps deliver Christmas each year. We worked with our friends at the Port of Lapland to arrange a special visit from Santa Claus himself and were delighted he was able to come and meet some special guests from Holy Trinity Primary School.”
The PLA has also today presented cheques to three local charities: £42,000 to the QVSR Seafarers’ Centre in Tilbury, £7,500 to ellenor hospice care in Gravesend, and £5,000 to Elliot Holmes Memorial Trust, which all provide support and help to people in our community all-year round.
Alexander Campbell OBE, CEO at the QVSR Seafarers’ Centre said:
“This donation will support the Tilbury Seafarers Centre to provide a warm welcome to seafarers visiting the Thames; giving them an opportunity to relax and take time away from the ship after many months at sea. We are hugely grateful for the support of the PLA throughout the year and especially at Christmas. Over 3,000 presents will be given to seafarers arriving in the port over the Christmas period, bringing some festive cheer to the men and women who are not only working over Christmas, but who are a long way away from their families and friends.”
