The True Spirit of Christmas
Jay Smith is on a mission to make Christmas Day considerably better for a large number of people.
A short while back, having recieved devastating new that his 10 year old son had been involved in a potentially fatal car crash in Leeds, Jay Smith’s life changed immediately and he needed to get to get to his child in the fastest time possible. Jays son was in a coma and having major surgery required to save his legs. During this horrific time, Jay was actively supported by his previous employer Chris Leonard of Mego Employment (Pictured above on the right).
There are people who have nothing
The Bristol Experience

Jay’s son was moved to Bristol Childrens Hospital where he spent several months in recovery. It was during this time, unable to spend all his time visiting, passed many hours in the area talking to people who found themselves homeless. After meeting and conversing often with people in such challenging circumstances, Jay became more aware of this problem being nationwide and clearly affecting our own locality.
“There are people who have nothing” Jay explains “It’s unbelievable how much support is needed“.
Graham Walker who has spent his adult life until now in this situation came up with a Christmas support plan however Jay was already on the case! Graham is now supporting Jays’ event with a collection box next to his regular pitch in Fore Street where he helps raise funds, this year for the Stepping Stones foodbank.
The Christmas Day Lunch
So taking positive action, Jay has secured the Rugby Club for Christmas day at a generously reduced rate and with the help of generous donations from local businesses and will be cooking alongside other volunteers for two sittings of 30 people at 12:15 and at 1:15.
Turkey crowns are being supplied by Mego business support, organic vegetables are being provided by Riverford Farms, Luscombe Drinks are supplying soft drinks and Bens Farm Shop are bringing in sweet treats with some more vegetables and more food from Stepping Stones Foodbank.
Jay is ensuring that all food preparation is handled by volunteers with Level 1 Hygiene certification and has raised money through a (now closed) Go Fund Me campaign along with the money raised by at Grahams pitch. Anyone who may be lonely or homeless at Christmas is encouraged to come along.
If you would like to help, get involved or want to book a place at the Christmas Day lunch please contact Jay Smith directly on christmasdaytotnes@mail.com
Marvellous. Absolutely marvellous. Well done to everyone involved.