A number of local charities have received a donation from Ballymoney’s ‘Black Santa’.
Liam Beckett MBE presented cheques to the good causes at a reception hosted by the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Council, Councillor Brenda Chivers this evening in Ballymoney.
For the eleventh year, Liam has taken up residence at the Diamond in the town and braved all the elements to collect money for five local charities along with Alastair Coyles.
The charities were : The Drop Inn Ministries, Samaritans, Society of St Vincent de Paul, The Salvation Army and Compass Advocacy Network.
The total amount raised in 2018 was £12,000. Each charity received a cheque for £2,400.
Mayor of Causeway Coast & Glens, Brenda Chivers said ‘I would like to commend Liam for what he has done for the community and charities involved.’
Councillor Darryl Wilson said ‘Can I take this opportunity to congratulate Liam on his 2018 fundraising efforts. Liam has raised countless thousands of pounds for various worthwhile charities. I am delighted to learn that Liam will be continuing his annual black Santa campaign and I would like to wish him every success in the future.
To conclude the presentation Alaistair Coyles said ‘Liam Beckett will be hard shoes to fill, and I will do my best to fill them. I could also be the first singing Santa.’
In a video interview to Q Radio and Causeway Coast Community Liam revealed that following his recent visit to Africa, he has now taken the vital decision to continue fundraising for those in need. His good friend and well-known country artist Alastair will assist in the 2019 sit-out with a view in taking over in the coming years.
