Famous South Shields Santa appealing for chocolate donations for NHS staff over festive period

Darren Johnson, who is known across South Shields and beyond for his Santa visits is appealing for donations to support NHS staff over Christmas and New Year.

The 52-year-old who portrays 'RentaSanta' has spent the last 30 years dressing up as Santa for house visits and hospital wards bringing joy to many.

Although Darren always takes selection boxes to children he wants to provide something for NHS staff who will be working throughout Christmas and New Year as gratitude for all the work they do.

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After little success to retrieve tins of bins and chocolates from supermarkets Darren is appealing to the public to help with his cause.

He said: "A simple gesture like this will go a long way with staff to show how appreciated they are especially at this time of year when it's so busy for them.

"Christmas isn't about what's under the tree but who's around it and the importance of kindness and good will."

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He is looking for biscuits, tubs of sweets, chocolate or any other festive treats which can be donated to staff at South Tyneside District Hospital and Sunderland Royal Hospital to help spread some festive cheer.

Donations can either be made directly to the hospital sites or can be dropped off to Darren who will distribute them in the run up to Christmas.

Anyone wishing to drop off at Darren's can email [email protected] for his address.

RentaSanta would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.