Central Bring Christmas Cheer to Seashell Trust

Despite causing the cancellation of Saturday’s fixture, the snowy weather allowed Manchester Central to celebrate a white Christmas at Seashell Trust Academy, with a group of players and staff visiting the school and distributing presents to its students.

Following the Central’s successful fundraiser over the previous weeks, which raised a whopping 122% of the £360 goal, four first-team players visited Seashell Trust to give personalised gifts to students remaining on-site during the Christmas holidays.

Dan Whiting, Daniel Dolling, Kaine Martin and Zak Bell visited the award-winning charity-run school in sub-zero temperatures, immediately greeted by the warm welcome of its staff and students. As the crew trudged through the sleet with boxes of presents in tow, the smiles of those who had braved the weather in the ornamentally adorned pavilion beamed towards them.

Having followed the recommendations of the specialist staff who provide 24-hour care, support and education to each individual, the personalised presents which the players gifted to the students were received enthusiastically.

With each student at the school having different needs, the staff were able to advise the players in their approach with each individual, teaching Daniel Dolling how to sign “Happy Christmas” to one young man as he opened his favourite chocolates.

Debbie Gittins, Head of Care at Seashell Trust, was kind enough to lead the entourage around the school’s facilities, allowing the players to defrost as they spent valuable one-to-one time with students inside their living quarters.

This allowed the players to see first-hand the work that the staff undertake, with Daniel Whiting’s take on the experience quoted as:

“It was nice for all the club to get together and give something back to the community, and it was really rewarding to see the smiles on the faces of all of the kids here. Seashell Trust Academy is our home ground so it feels good to see the full facilities and understand more about the work that goes on here.”

“The staff here are absolutely fantastic. They’re all very enthusiastic about their job and provide the absolute best care to all of their students. It’s lovely to have met them and hopefully brighten their collective Christmas periods a little!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thM0z7FgxR8

Following the player's visit, Debbie Gittins stated "The players are an inspiration to us all, selfless and compassionate. For those who are staying at Seashell over Christmas, Saturday's visit was thoroughly enjoyed by all."

"The players took time out to meet and get to know some of the children and young adults. Each present had been well thought out, unique to their personalities and preferences. They could not be appreciated more. Thank you so much for your generous donations that funded these gifts."

This initiative could not have been possible without the kindness and generosity of those who donated – to whom the club is extremely grateful.

We hope that Manchester Central F.C. has been able to spread Christmas cheer to those at Seashell Trust Academy, but we would also like to extend our wishes for everyone to have a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. See you in 2023!