A CHARITY shop has a fantastic new Christmas display after suffering a theft of its original.
The Cancer Research UK shop in Shotton has a new Santa and sleigh in its window courtesy of a kind member of the public.
Stephen Dodd, from Connah's Quay, stepped in to offer his services after the shop had its previous Santa and sleigh display items stolen.
He enjoys making wood carvings and hand-crafted a new sleigh - which was unveiled at the shop at the weekend.
The theft had left shop volunteer June McAnoy, who created the display, "heartbroken".
But Stephen's kindness, as well as that of Hawarden-based Lilly and Harraldo Floral Art which donated Christmas wreaths full of goodies to raffle off, and Hazel Bellis who donated a Santa, "overwhelmed" her.
She said: "The response has been amazing, we've had so much support. I can't thank everyone enough. It really epitomises the Christmas spirit and it's so uplifting to see after what happened."
June's close friend, Lynne Chick appealed for help on the Loose Ladies Facebook page which she co-runs. The page has upwards of 6,000 followers and it was there that Stephen learnt of the theft.
He said: "I spotted a plea on Loose Ladies Facebook page for someone to donate a new sledge after the original one was stolen, I was happy to offer my services as I love making items from wood.
"It was a pleasure to make, I really enjoyed doing it. Members of the public came into the shop to see the new display and couldn't thank me enough, the staff at the shop were made up. June had been left heartbroken by the theft, however on Saturday she had tears of joy seeing the new replacement. It's lovely when something that is just a hobby to me can make such a difference to the community."
Lynne added: "After its previous one was stolen seeing the new sledge revealed was spectacular. Not only did Stephen hand make a sledge, but also reindeer's and a cute little elf.
"So many people stopped by to see the new display and to thank Stephen. It was truly a remarkable afternoon.
"Lilly and Harraldo Floral Art also donated a Christmas wreath, and Hazel Bellis donated a Santa - in true Christmas community spirit."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here