Charity Christmas card launched for Foyle Search and Rescue

The owner of iconic Derry business Ferry Clever on Bishop Street said he was delighted by the success of his annual Christmas charity video in aid of Foyle Search and Rescue. 

Speaking to The Derry News, Christopher Ferry said the poignant video had so far received more than 250,000 hits in less than one week.

"I am glad a lot of people have seen it," said Mr Ferry, "and I am glad it is having an impact on people judging by the comments being left by viewers.

"The card featured in the video - the one the wee girl gives to her daddy - is for sale in the the shop. On it is written, 'Christmas gratitude for the ones who don't stop caring'. It is a tribute to Foyle Search and Rescue at Christmastime.

"It is something different. You wouldn't normally see a Foyle Search and Rescue greeting card at all because, obviously, the subject is very sensitive.

"The cards have been selling well so far and we are trying to raise as much as we can for Foyle Search and Rescue. All of the proceeds from the card go to the much-deserving charity.

"People can buy the card in the shop or order it online at www.ferryclever.co.uk. I have had people ordering it in in America and all over!" said Mr Ferry. 

Accompanied by a beautiful rendition of 'The Parting Glass' by local group Lavengro, Mr Ferry said he had done the video to raise money for Foyle Search and Rescue and to shine a light on the volunteers who work there and they job they do.

"When their phone rings, regardless of what they are doing, the Foyle Search and Rescue volunteers put it aside to go and save people. That is what I wanted to try and get across in the video," he added.

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"Also, mental health and suicide rates in Derry are through the roof, so I thought I would do a video too to try and let people know it is okay to talk."

Last Christmas Mr Ferry has raised money for SANDS the charity which provides support to anyone affected by the death of a baby.

"The year before that it was Children in Crossfire with Richard Moore. We always do card campaigns where we give the money to charity. We have also done a couple of cards to raise money for Palestine."