Project Chairman Dermot O Connell had asked Santa (Lion Noel de Courcey) in good time to pencil in Wed 21^st December, the shortest day of the year, in his overworked diary for his special appearance in The John Paul Centre, Ballybane and St. Joseph’s Special School, Newcastle Road.

Naturally, Santa was only too pleased to use these two visits as a limber up before the big gig on Christmas Eve. Santa was in fine voice as he "Ho! Ho! Ho!" -ed and rang his bell and the well-trained elves (VP1 Tony and Lions Dan Griffin and Des Conway) labeled the presents for the special boys and girls. So with a trolley laden with gifts this motley crew made their way to the JP Centre.

The boys and girls were delighted and while not all respond, the joy on the faces of those who did more than rewarded the visitors. Some were shy and while Santa had a word for each no words are necessary as the spirit of Christmas transcends mere words. The staff canteen at the JP Centre was laden with mince pies, cream, tea and Christmas cake. After recharging the batteries it was with some difficulty the team got to their feet and continued on to St. Joseph’s.

It’s always a happy experience at St. Joseph’s when Santa’s arrival is greeted with a roar of excitement. Each child is called out by name, rushes up to be kissed and hugged by Santa and presented with their gift. Some parents were on hand, along with the teachers, and cameras were on the go full time. Happiness radiated, they had waited so long and their patience had been rewarded.

This is a project that rekindles the Christmas spirit in each one of us fortunate enough to participate. It is indeed our privilege to share the occasion with these special kids. To Project Chairman Dermot, Santa Noel and the elves,  we extend our thanks for a project very well completed.