Newquay businesses join in the Christmas spirit with donation project

Businesses in Newquay are once again coming together in the spirit of Christmas, by way of a community project put together by husband-and-wife duo Jess and Laurie Gardener, who run award-winning L&K Travel, and local mortgage broker James Savage. Following the success of last year, the aim of the Newquay Community Christmas project is simple; to ensure all children across the town can receive a present this Christmas.

Jess, 29, explains: "The project started in 2024 when we bought a little Santa's letterbox. We asked the community of Newquay to anonymously nominate people who they feel need help this Christmas, or to put themselves forward."

They asked two questions: what do people need, and where do they want it to be delivered. "Sometimes we find that pride gets in the way," Jess continued. "Many people don't want to admit they need help, no matter what their situation is."

Laurie, 34, added: "Then it just took off; the outpouring of support for the idea was incredible. We were absolutely inundated with presents – it really showed what Newquay is all about."

The team is completed by 41-year-old Newquay born and bred James Savage, who runs an award-winning national mortgage brokerage and has helped hundreds of locals achieve their property goals. James has worked with charities in Newquay for many years, most recently supporting DISC, until the pandemic changed the way toys could be donated. James said: "In the years that followed 2020, I started working with businesses on voucher donation initiatives or Amazon Wish Lists around Christmas time. "When Jess and Laurie messaged me this year, joining forces was a no-brainer. I just think a project like this is one of the most important things you can do on a local level."

James added, "It's also just nice to see businesses collaborate rather work in silo for their own recognition. Recognising strengths. It's not about us; it's about the act of charity and spirit of Christmas."

The team are also hoping to increase donations of gifts for older people. "We know a lot of the elderly community will be alone this year, or perhaps unable to buy for their spouse. That's what this project is about; helping them to spread joy in their own way," Jess said.

The local trio have arranged a fundraising day on Sunday 21st December from 10 am until 2 pm, hosted at Project 83 by the team there. People are invited to donate in person if they prefer, whilst enjoying entertainment as a thank you, led by local music artists Josh Curnow, Kello Hub and Selena Brose giving their time to ramp up the festive vibe on the day. There will be a tombola on the day with some wonderful prizes up for grabs. All proceeds raised will go directly towards the Newquay's community Christmas mission. 

The project will then culminate in a community donation event at St Michael's Church on the 22nd and 23rd of December from 10 am until 2 pm, supported by other hubs and organisations who support people individually around town – such as the Salvation Army and Newquay Food Bank – the latter adding donations of hot meals. People will be able to attend St Michael's to choose an unwrapped gift to give to someone else. The event will feature tables full of toys ranging from infants to teens, gifts for adults and a space for essentials such as bodywash and toothpaste.

L&K Travel is based in Newquay's Killacourt Retail Quarter, https://landktravel.co.uk