Thousands of Christmas presents generated by shoppers, radio listeners and local businesses were distributed to children across Bedfordshire at Christmas thanks to the Wishing Tree Appeal.  

bpha housing association continued to support the initiative by having their own tree in their local office and the team collected nearly two hundred presents. With the help of parents, Busy Bees at Bedford Elstow Nursery joined in the appeal by teaching their children how they can make a difference by picking their favourite toys which resulted in a car full of gifts being delivered.

Heart Four Counties radio listeners including the elusive "Anonymous Builder" who has donated hundreds of presents over recent years which resulted in a record breaking appeal this year.

Samantha Laycock, Centre Manager said, "We would like to thank everyone who donated gifts this Christmas and to the teams who worked hard to ensure each child had a magical Christmas Day in our 40th Anniversary year. Shopping locally for gifts supports our retailers and it is also a great way to give back to our local community."

To ensure no child missed out, the owners of the Harpur Centre donated £500 worth of gifts from its stores including Argos, WH Smith, DW Sports, Claire's Accessories and The Fragrance Shop. The stores made every penny count by discounting the goods and Santa checked they were on the children's wish list.

James Burchell from Tellon Capital said "We are very proud to have supported such a lovely initiative. Christmas is about giving something back, and we’re very happy to have been able to help.”

For further information or to keep up to date with Harpur Centre events visit www.harpurcentre.co.uk