Back in May, Southport Hesketh Round Table put out a heartfelt call asking for help from local businesses to build a new Santa sleigh.
The old float, much-loved but no longer fit for purpose, needed retiring. Despite the Round Table’s incredible track record, organising events like the Mad Dog 10K, BBC Children in Need’s Pudsey in Schools, Beer on the Pier, and raising over £250,000 for families affected by the July 2024 tragedy, no-one initially responded.
So, on 10th June, they turned to their own Facebook page and posted a video plea. That video was viewed over 12,000 times… and it worked!
Within a week, local business The EFT Group reached out with the words: “We think we can help you.” And help they did.
What followed was a series of start-up meetings, design discussions, and a shared vision to create something truly special. EFT even brought in Rick McNally from Resonates Media to help launch a video campaign worthy of the festive season. One of EFT’s many trusted suppliers, Graham Eves from Landmark Joinery, also stepped in to assist with the sleigh’s construction, a true community effort.
Marc Foreman, Round Table honorary and well-seasoned marketing specialist, took the reins on the creative direction. With nearly 20 years of experience working with brands like TUI, Methven, and The Fragrance Shop, Marc’s brief was clear: create a video that feels like a John Lewis Christmas advert, but with a local twist. Something joyful, heartwarming, and fun.
The campaign was split into different chapters to build excitement and engagement, with each video designed to engage, entertain and inspire the Southport community.
EFT Group, known not only for their national business success but also for their charitable foundations, proved to be the perfect partner. Their commitment to supporting local causes made them a natural fit for saving Southport’s Dancing Santa and his sleigh.
Campaign Launch Dates – Save the Dates!
Two of the video chapters have already been released. Click here to review them;
Chapter 1: https://fb.watch/D8rPXCKVq_/
Chapter 2: https://fb.watch/D8rOYl6TDm/
There are still some more surprises to come, so keep an eye on the Southport Hesketh Round Table Facebook page and get ready to share the magic.
Alongside the brand-new float, the team have refreshed their Santa routes to reach even more families across Southport.
Routes will be announced soon on social media, so make sure to follow and check in regularly.
Each night of the three-week float tour will be supported by a different local charity or community group, who will receive a share of the donations collected. In previous years, charitable donations have included scout packs, youth sports teams, and even Olympic hopefuls in aerobics groups.
This year promises to be brighter, louder, and even more magical than ever before.
Want to Get Involved?
If you’d like to join Southport Hesketh Round Table or find out more about how you can support their work, please reach out via Facebook or email: southporthesketh@roundtable.org.uk
Together, let’s make this Christmas unforgettable.
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
