Meet the Pollok group who deliver presents on Christmas Eve

The Greater Pollok Santa Walkabout, founded by Donna Foote, started in 2020 to help spread festive cheer during a difficult time.

The walk, which has now become a staple at Christmas time in the community, sees Donna and her family and friends stroll through the streets in the Southside and hand out presents to families along the way. 

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Donna's aim was to help children receive presents that they could open up on Christmas Day to ensure that no one was waking up with nothing.

Speaking exclusively to the Glasgow Times, the 55-year-old said: "I have never experienced anything like this before in my life.

"2020 was the start of it all as I wanted to do something that would help people, so I convinced my daughter to come out with me dressed as Santa to make it special for children.

"I didn't know how it would go and my daughter even said she wouldn't do it again if it didn't work.

"But wow it was something else!

"I couldn't get out my street, but it brings back some special childhood memories around this time".

The first year it took place Craigbank resident Donna gifted over 500 presents, however, in 2022 she gifted around 1000 parcels.

Now, three years on since the start of the Santa Walk it has become a tradition in the community, with this year set to be the biggest yet according to Donna. 

Along with just over 20 volunteers helping throughout the mission, many of those who are participating will be dressed up in costumes such as Santa, The Grinch and Elves.

The group have received funding from a number of different avenues that help prepare for the occasion, with the group also hosting an event at Easter which includes the Easter Bunny handing out chocolate eggs.

The journey is expected to take just over seven hours, the walk will set off on Glen Moriston Road in Darnley, and pass through Southpark Village, Nitshill Road and Brockburn Road before heading for Linthaugh Road and Braidcraft Road and finishing off at Tesco in Silverburn. 

And this year Tesco has partnered up with the group to help support them with community champion at the supermarket giants, Michelle McMurray, who has been a huge supporter over the years says Donna. 

Donna said: "Last year when we did it, it took us hours and the children and families all waited for us at the gates which was amazing.

"Cars that passed us beeped their hours and it was such a special feeling.

"The best way to describe it was pandemonium but that is what we wanted if I am honest.

"Tesco are helping out this year again after supporting the toy drive the last two with Michelle being a huge champion for it.

"She has been great support for the cause and it is fantastic to see

"We can't wait to get going again this year as it will be another fantastic occasion for everyone."

Michelle McMurray, community champion at Tesco in Silverburn, said: “The Greater Pollok Walkabout is a wonderful initiative that supports both local children in need and their families who are struggling with financial difficulties.

"Being based in the Pollok area, where our store is located, it’s an incredibly important cause that is very close to the heart of our team.

“No child should be left out at Christmas, so we are proud to have supported The Greater Pollok Walkabout initiative over the past few years, and Iook forward to our continued involvement in the future, helping to spread some joy over the festive season.”