School children and poet join forces to spread cheer and happiness
A heartfelt mission to share the joy of Christmas card is being mounted by a Scottish shopping centre, local school children and a poet. Their goal is to spread cheer and provide an uplift for those who may feel lonely during the holidays.
Stirling’s Thistles joined forces with esteemed writer Donna Ashworth and invited all primary schools in Forth Valley to participate in a competition to design the cover of the official Christmas card.
After receiving an array of stunning submissions, two young artists Antony Jose (aged 10) and Caris Dean (aged 11) from St Bernadette’s RC Primary School in Stenhousemuir were crowned joint winners.
Their vibrant designs will feature on the front of the Christmas cards, bringing their festive visions to life.
‘This Christmas, we wanted to focus on the power of connection. Through our Christmas card drive, we’re bringing the community together to show kindness and compassion,’ says Gary Turnbull, Centre Director at Thistles.
‘With the beautiful artwork from Antony and Caris, and Donna Ashworth’s inspiring poem, we hope these cards will bring smiles and warmth to everyone who receives them.’
Adding an extra sprinkle of magic to the campaign, Thistles partnered with three-time bestselling poet Donna Ashworth.
Known for her ability to touch hearts, Donna crafted an uplifting poem to feature inside the cards, perfectly encapsulating the warmth and wonder of the holiday season.
Christmas is all about ‘sharing love’
‘It’s an honour to be part of such a meaningful campaign,’ says Donna. ‘Christmas is all about sharing love, and I hope my poem helps to spread joy and remind people that they are thought of and cared for.’
Organisers also arranged for a pop-up Christmas card post box to be placed into Waterstones so people could pen heartfelt festive messages.
A team would then deliver them to Strathcarron Hospice with the aim of bringing comfort and joy to those who may be feeling isolated during the holidays.
The Thistles Christmas card drive is part of the centre’s ongoing #ThistlesHelps campaign, which aims to support the local community. Members of the public can drop by the post box at Waterstones to contribute their festive messages.
Donna Ashworth’s poem
Care can be found in the smallest of sounds,
like a card on your mat through a door.
A smile can be raised and a day can be saved,
with an envelope plucked from the floor.
Community matters and love must be scattered,
like snowflakes when winter is here.
We must come together whatever the weather,
and find ways to spread joy and cheer.
