EEAST’s Christmas Toy Drive brings joy to children across Suffolk and North East Essex
Date: 23 December 2025The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) team in Suffolk and North East Essex has made Christmas brighter for children in hospitals, hospices, and local communities with its first-ever Christmas Toy Drive.
Thanks to generous donations from staff and local charities, more than 150 gifts were delivered on Monday 22 December to children at EACH Children’s Hospice, Treehouse in Ipswich, and Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals.
In true EEAST style, Santa swapped his sleigh for a Christmas-themed ambulance, joined by his “reindeer” and “elves,” to deliver presents and smiles to children spending time in hospital or hospice care during the festive season.
The initiative was organised by Paramedic Team Leader Darren Scally, following a challenge from Local Area Manager Marc Dixon. What began as a small idea quickly grew with support from local charities, including First Stop Centre in Braintree and Child and Provide in Clacton.
Child and Provide runs Christmas clubs, dinners, and safe spaces for vulnerable children and families. Through this partnership, the Toy Drive visited three community sites in Jaywick, Clacton, and St Osyth, where around 50 children explored an ambulance, met Santa (played by paramedic Roger Brown), and received gifts a highlight for everyone involved.
Roger was supported by Chief Elves Jessica Sydenham and Adele Clarke, along with ambulance elves Sindy Bland and Jonathan Kear, with support from Megan Kelly and Michelle Behn.
All staff gave up their free time to make the day special.
Reflecting on the success, Darren Scally, Paramedic Team Leader, said:
“I’m so delighted how this has all turned out and am so proud of everyone involved – from charities who supported us to the staff who donated and volunteered their time.
“Everyone has worked so hard to make this so special for everyone all the children in our local area.”
Jessica Sydenham, another Paramedic Team Leader, added:
“Great credit goes to Darren for organising this event and to everyone who supported the Toy Drive.
“Bringing joy to children who may be facing a tough time is what this season is all about. This is something we’d love to repeat next year and make an annual tradition.”
Marc Dixon, Local Area Manager added:
“This Toy Drive really resonated with me because my own son was in hospital last year and received gifts during his stay – I know firsthand how much these gestures mean to families.
“Seeing the incredible response from staff and local charities has been heartwarming. Together, we’ve brought smiles to children who truly deserve some festive cheer.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and hope to make this an annual tradition.”
