A DAD is urging residents to once again donate Chocolate Oranges for a Christmas appeal to thank dedicated medical staff who help others over the festive period.

Chris Lamb, 42, started Make A Difference Friday nine years ago in memory of his son Elliott Lamb, who died aged four in 2010 from the condition congenital Cytomegalovirus.

In his memory, Chris came up with the idea of collecting as many Terry’s Chocolate Oranges as possible for hospital staff nationwide.

St Helens Star:

Chris with some of the children at a past event

Over the years more than 56,000 chocolate oranges have been donated to the appeal.

Hospital and hospice staff across the North West will be given the chocolate on Friday, December 13 – after a final push for donations in Saints Totally Wicked Stadium

Dad-of-three Chris, from Rainford, said: “When I started this I had to do a lot of campaigning to get the word out there, now I’m getting messages from people already getting started.

“I get so much help to make this happen now, it’s not me with a huge pile of chocolate oranges in my lounge anymore. Every year it just makes me so proud how many donated choc oranges we get in because this is for the hardworking staff in hospitals and hospices who do so much to help others over Christmas.

“Also because Elliott isn’t here it’s like a big celebration of his life and a lovely way to remember him.

“An added bonus is that it’s Christmas Jumper Day, so just turn up to Saints in your Christmas Jumper, donate your choc oranges and enjoy the entertainment.

Entertainment will be provided by school choirs from across the borough.