Kind-hearted Mercury readers are coming up with a variety of ways to raise money for our Christmas appeal for the Leicester Children's Holiday Centre, in Mablethorpe.
The centre, which provides a holiday for 350 children a year, needs £65,000 to upgrade its boiler and central heating.
Olympic torch-holder John Noble has picked a unique way to raise money for the centre.
Postman John, 55, of Eyres Monsell, who ran one of the city legs of the July Olympic torch relay, has helped raise thousands for charity by turning up in his white suit and torch.
Now he is offering to do the same for individuals, groups and organisations, as long as they make a donation to the centre.
John, whose stint included running past the Leicester Mercury building in St George Street, said: "I went to 19 schools in the 10 or 11 days after the relay. I've now attended 92 charity events with the torch.
"When I saw the Mercury's Christmas appeal for the centre, I thought this was a way I could help.
"I will turn out for anybody so they can have their picture taken with the torch, with or without me in it."
John, who has worked for the Post Office for 37 years, is a member of Leicester Coritanian Athletic Club.
He used to run about 150 miles a week, and still does 80.
"I will go anywhere with the torch to help anybody and I can also give a talk reliving the day. It's nice to make people smile."
Also boosting the appeal will be A Celebration of Christmas, at the Guildhall, Leicester, on Thursday, at 7.30pm.
Jim Roberts, chairman of charity The Leicester Children's Holiday Home at Mablethorpe, said: "It has become a tradition for the charity to organise a very special evening at the Guildhall, with its wonderful atmosphere.
"The evening brings together entertainment from a variety of talented local people and includes a sumptuous buffet supper in the mayor's parlour.
"Guests are greeted with a glass of mulled wine which they can enjoy in true Christmas spirit in front of a roaring open fire.
"The evening is drawn to a close with carols sung by the performers and audience."
The evening, compèred by entertainer Derek Pearce, will feature performers including barber-shop quartet SoClose, musicians T43 and the Tudor Choir, which will also lead the audience into the carol finale.
There will also comedy from Bob Paul.
Tickets are £15 each, including glass of mulled wine or soft drink and buffet supper, and are available from the charity's office on 0116 251 9863 (mornings).
People are urged to book early as tickets are limited and are always in great demand.
Meanwhile, pensioner Lynda Roach has donated her winter fuel allowance to the appeal.
Lynda, of Asfordby, said: "I read an article in the Leicester Mercury about the Leicester Children's Holiday Centre, which desperately needs £65,000 to upgrade its boiler and central heating system.
"I am going to send my winter fuel allowance to this appeal, and hope others in my position will consider doing the same."
Alan Eden, assistant secretary of Leicester City Men's Table Skittles, said: "Over the past 30 years-plus we have supported the home, sometimes with up to a £1,000 a year, and we will continue to do so as long as the league runs.
"I know that a lot of players, including myself, have been to home as children.
"I wish you and everyone concerned with your fund-raising all the best."
Anyone interested in taking up John's torch offer can contact him on 0116 277 4495.
