Caring Caretaker launches ‘virtual’ charity Christmas sit-out

For the past 20 years, Davy Boyle has become a pre-Christmas fixture in Coleraine’s Diamond as he sets up his ‘wee hut’ to raise funds for his chosen charities.

Even temperatures of -15 degrees didn’t stop the Caring Caretaker sitting outside from the start of December until Christmas Eve.

However, the global pandemic and its restrictions have forced Davy to cancel his annual fundraiser - and it was a heartbreaking decision for the Coleraine man to take.

“I have worked tirelessly over the past 20 years raising over £630,000. As we all know, it has been a very hard year for everyone and I haven’t been able to raise money for my charities in the way I normally do, with organised events throughout the year which normally raise around £10,000. 

“I have also had to cancel my sit out that I do every year from December 1 to December 24 which normally raises around £25,000. 

“So, I have decided to set up a GoFundMe page so that people can still help me raise money for my charities as they need money now more than ever. I hope that all the very generous people can help me raise some much needed money for my 2020 charities. 

“They are Macmillan Cancer, Northern Ireland Hospice, Kidney Research Coleraine Branch, Friends of the Cancer Centre, Prostate Cancer, Community Rescue Service, Alzheimer’s, Charlene’s Project and SANDS NI.
“Every penny counts and will be very much appreciated.”

To donate to Davy’s charities, go to GoFundMe and search for ‘The Caring Caretaker’.