Derry Santa's Christmas charity appeal hoping to raise £10,000 in memory of Christy

The family of a Derry man who died from malaria ten years ago hope to raise £10,000 in his memory before Christmas.

Christy Gallagher (pictured) died in Thailand in 2006 after contracting the deadly disease on a trip around the world.

Following his death, Christy’s family linked up with Derry-based charity Children in Crossfire to fundraise to help children in impoverished parts of the world.

As part of their fundraising efforts, Christopher’s parents, Martin and Mary, have dressed up as Santa to host a collection campaign outside the Guildhall in the run-up to Christmas.

This year, they are hoping that the collection will raise up to £10,000.

The collection will be based in the Guildhall Square entrance to the Guildhall.

Martin said he hoped people in Derry would again support their appeal which will support three projects run by the charity in Tanzania, Ethiopia and the Gambia.

“The money raised will fund the training of nurses, stock up a little clinic run by the charity in Ethiopia and fund two nurses to run it,” he said.

“The money will also be used to put clean drinking water in place which will give children the benefit to avail of this precious commodity.”

The collection runs until December 22.

As part of the fundraising campaign, the Gallaghers are organising a ‘Super Fundraiser’ day on December 22 which is the last day of Santa’s Big Fundraiser Appeal.

To take part in the ‘Super Fundraiser’, Santa would like little helpers in shops, schools, emergency services, cafes, restaurant’s, banks, factories, bars, supermarkets and the community to raise £10+per helper minimum.

They are then asked to bring the money along to the Guildhall at 1pm.

People can also donate to the charity by sponsoring Santa’s fundraiser by texting SBFA68 to 70070 or by cheque/postal order made out to Children in Crossfire.

Martin added: “Your continued support over the years in the North West and beyond has always been greatly appreciated. Derry people have always been known and recognised for their generosity and this year will be no different.”