Christmas shoppers at Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness targeted by secret Santas in festive acts of kindness
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Random customers in the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness have been the target of Christmas acts of kindness.
Shoppers found themselves being surprised with gifts from secret Santas thanks to the shopping centre and retailers.
The venture, which aims to generate Christmas cheer, has seen shoppers aged five to 60 presented with gifts valued at about £50.
Centre manager Jackie Cuddy said there had been positive feedback from recipients.
“After two tough years we felt that people needed a lift,” she said.
One lady, who received a Body Shop gift bag, said it had truly made her day.
“After such a tough year with Covid, I am absolutely shocked to receive this,” she said.
Another customer, who witnessed two little boys playing secret Santa to two other little boys, said it had made her Christmas to see how excited all the boys were to get their presents.
The two young recipients were so grateful their parents took them to buy toys for the Order of St John Giving Tree in the centre, which distributes presents to children in need around the Highlands. It is located by Boots.
Everyone who agreed to play secret Santa also got a £20 Eastgate voucher.
Jade Mackenzie, the centre’s digital and marketing executive, said people were stunned.
“It was so heartwarming to see,” she said.
“A lot of participants said after such a hard year with Covid and all the restrictions it was just nice to be involved in such a generous act.
“It completely made their day and would be something they would be talking about for a long time.”
Stores taking part were Hotel Chocolat, One of a Kind contemporary Gallery, Joules, The Bodyshop, Grapetree, Cafferys, Quiz, Hera, Ernest Jones, The Entertainer and Claire’s.
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