Santa at Dobbies Sandyholm 2013 Slideshow

MEETING Santa at Dobbies Sandyholm in the Clyde Valley is something nine-year-old Amy Carmichael won’t forget in a hurry.
Merry Christmas...for Amy Carmichael with Santa and Mrs Claus at Dobbies Sandyholm Grotto opening (Pic Andrew Wilson)Merry Christmas...for Amy Carmichael with Santa and Mrs Claus at Dobbies Sandyholm Grotto opening (Pic Andrew Wilson)
Merry Christmas...for Amy Carmichael with Santa and Mrs Claus at Dobbies Sandyholm Grotto opening (Pic Andrew Wilson)

Amy was invited to ride in Santa’s sleigh with Santa and Mrs Claus at the opening of the garden centre’s grotto.

Amy’s mum Heather explained why her daughter, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in July 2012, was chosen by Dobbies.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Stonehouse mum said: “Amy was diagnosed when she was seven-years-old. Her eighth birthday party had been booked for the August of that year at Dobbies but, because she was in hospital and undergoing intense chemotherapy, the party had to be cancelled.

Merry Christmas...for Amy Carmichael with Santa and Mrs Claus at Dobbies Sandyholm Grotto opening (Pic Andrew Wilson)Merry Christmas...for Amy Carmichael with Santa and Mrs Claus at Dobbies Sandyholm Grotto opening (Pic Andrew Wilson)
Merry Christmas...for Amy Carmichael with Santa and Mrs Claus at Dobbies Sandyholm Grotto opening (Pic Andrew Wilson)

“She waited a whole year and managed to have an amazing birthday at Dobbies, organised by staff members Carol Inglis and Jennifer Aitchison.

“She also managed to raise £8750 for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research this year through a number of sponsored events.

“Carol and Jennifer were touched by her story and spirit and asked if she would be Santa’s special guest.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Grotto is open from now until December 24, with various time slots available, and costs £6 per child.

Freelance photographer Andrew Wilson was there to capture Amy’s big day and all of the grotto opening fun, featured here in our slideshow.

Related topics: