A Macclesfield resident is dressing up as St. Nick himself this Christmas, to raise money for a local charity.

Neville Mackay, of Upton Priory, is walking around the Upton Priory estate in a Santa costume.

He's already started doing the odd few walks, and will do so 12 days straight next month.

It is all to raise money for Macclesfield's East Cheshire Hospice, who cared for Neville's late father Donald three years ago.

(Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

Macclesfield Nub News met with Neville (or Santa) for a chat.

"My dad sadly passed away in September 2020 from cancer," said Neville.

"The Hospice did me proud when they cared for him, so I decided this was going to be the year I give something back.

"From December 12 to December 24 I am going to be walking around the Upton Priory estate as the big man himself.

(Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"I will be doing this for two hours every night, from 6pm to 8pm.

"I will be collecting for the Hospice on all those days."

East Cheshire Hospice provides care for those affected by life-limiting illnesses, at their state-of-the-art centre on Millbank Drive.

80% of their annual running costs are met by donations from the public, including altruistic, generous folk like Neville.

(Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"To anyone who donates, thank you for donating to the Hospice", added Neville.

"It is all going towards a great cause. I hope to come down to the Hospice one day as Santa as well.

"Please donate as much as you can, and I wish them all of Macclesfield a very, Merry Christmas."

If you can't make a cash donation in-person on Neville's 12 Days of Christmas challenge, why not make a one-time donation to East Cheshire Hospice on this link?

As well as being close to his heart, the Hospice is geographically close to Neville, being just a short stroll away. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

East Cheshire Hospice Community and Events Fundraiser Claire Gorton said: "It was great to meet Neville and hear about his festive fundraising idea!"

"We're so delighted that he has chosen to support East Cheshire Hospice, where his dad Donald was cared for. Neville will certainly be spreading a lot of joy within his local area and the funds he raises will make a big difference here. The Hospice relies heavily on donations so it's people like Neville that enable us to keep providing our vital services to those in our community who need them."

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