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It's that time of the year and once again Newry's fundraising champion is getting ready for his 33rd Sit-Out for the Hospice on Hill Street in Newry.
John’s Sit-Out will take place at its usual spot in Marcus Square where his familiar trailer will be stationed from this Saturday 14 December until Christmas Eve. On 21st December, John turns 83 years old and despite suffering from ill health this year you will once again find him in his hut on Hill Street despite it being his birthday.
Since 1992, John Dalzell OBE has dedicated his time to sitting out and collecting money for Southern Area Hospice in the run up to Christmas - often in the coldest weather while others are busy buying and wrapping presents. John has gathered a team to assist him, known as the “Sit-Out Team” and together they collect donations every Christmas right across the local area – while John retains his usual spot in his famous trailer on Hill Street. In recent years, John’s Sit-Out duration has also lengthened, and he plans to sit out this year for 10 days.
John has been a part of Christmas in Hospice for so long it is almost impossible to think of it without him in his red suit on Hill Street. John is really looking forward to starting this year saying,
“I have always promised that, as long as I am able to, I will spend the days leading up to Christmas on Hill Street in Newry, meeting as many of you and raising as much as I can for the Hospice — a cause that means so much to me, and to all of us.
"This year, I am sad to say, I have suffered some ill-health, however, I’m as determined as ever to take part in the sit-out. I am busy with my team and the Hospice planning for it. The sit-out is a huge team effort and we are working hard in preparation to ensure its continued success."
John continued "Last year, we raised £126,000, which helped run the inpatient unit for almost 13 days making a huge difference to the quality of life for so many local people and their families. I’m committed to ensuring that all the hard work we've put in to building the success of the sit-out over many years isn’t lost, so we can continue raising these vital funds for our Hospice, together."
Fundraising Officer for the Hospice James McCaffrey who works with John and his team said: “I have known John for over 10 years now and it is no surprise to me that he is determined to continue with his wonderful Sit-Out for yet another year. John and his dedicated Sit-Out team are an incredible example of the spirit of giving at Christmas. The amount of time and effort they put into this collection for Southern Area Hospice each year is truly amazing, and it is an honour to work alongside them. Last year, John raised almost £126,000 for our Hospice. On behalf of all the patients, their families and friends who have been touched by our services, I would like to sincerely thank John and his team, and everyone who continues to support them. Although the Sit-Out takes place from the 14th-24th December, John works all year round to ensure it happens and these past few years more than ever, he has overcome extra obstacles so that the Hospice doesn’t miss out on the much-needed money he raises”.
In addition to John’s Sit-Out on Hill Street, collections will take place around the town at Fiveways Shopping Complex, The Quays Shopping Centre and Damolly Retail Park, Newry. So please keep an eye out for them when you are in town. John also loves company and a quick chat so do not be a stranger if you are passing by! He often reminisces about the hundreds of children he drove to school on his bus, taking great delight when they now approach him at the trailer as adults, sharing fond memories of his kindness. Although John turns 83 on 21st December, he will celebrate on Friday 20th December, so people are encouraged to come along and wish him a ‘Happy Birthday’. There will be food and music on the day.
If you would like to donate to this Appeal in aid of Southern Area Hospice Services, please visit John’s Sit Out on Hill Street or to one of his collectors around the town. You can also donate online at www.justgiving.com or send your donation to: Southern Area Hospice Services, St John's House, Courtney Hill, Newry, BT34 2EB.
Donations can also be made over the phone by calling James on 028 302 67711 or by returning your appeal letter slip if you received one.
