Celebrities help to launch Action For Children’s Secret Santa charity campaign

Dame Arlene Phillips, Larry Lamb and Dr Ranj are among the famous faces helping to launch Action For Children’s charity Secret Santa campaign.

The celebrities will deliver heartfelt Christmas messages and encourage members of the public to make a real difference to the less fortunate at a time of economic hardship.

Each celebrity represents a “warm” wish for children collected straight from the charity’s frontline workers who provide vital services for struggling children, young people and their families across the UK.

Some of the wishes include love, curiosity, friends, laughter, a warm home, loving family and good mental health.

Becoming a Secret Santa allows members of the public to donate and provide children with the essentials, with donations ranging from £5 to pay for food, up to £125 for a bed.

Gavin and Stacey star Lamb said he was “incredibly proud” to have been involved with Action For Children for well over a decade.

“Our cause is more timely than ever with so many children and their families struggling with the cost of living crisis.

“Times are tough, but if there’s one thing the British public is known for, it’s their generosity. Being a child’s Secret Santa can help put the magic back into their Christmas.”

Former Strictly Judge Dame Arlene said: “Being a mum is one of my biggest achievements.

“Parenting can be a really tough job – our instinct is to protect our children. Kids are smart and can often sense tension in the home, whether it’s down to parental conflict or money worries.