Kirkcaldy elf steps in to save Christmas with special Santa messages

F&M MEDIA wants to create some festive magic for youngsters by offering personalised videos from Santa Claus..

The company is run by Ryan Ralph Gerrard – who was the head elf at the popular grotto – and Hale Denholm, and they hope to save Christmas for local children with this new venture.

The photography/videography company is based in Canberra Crescent in Kirkcaldy - just next to Fife Retail Park – and, for the next few weeks, it will be home to Santa.

People can book a video message for a loved one, whether that be for a child, friend, family member or colleague. The aim is to reassure them that Christmas is very much going ahead this year despite the pandemic.

Santa’s messages can reassure children about their Christmas lists, offer imaginative facts about life in the North Pole and, if needed, a subtle suggestion as to why best behaviour is important.

Ryan normally works as head elf at the Mercat Shopping Centre’s Christmas grotto, and came up with a creative alternative to spread some festive cheer after learning that the traditional event was not going ahead,

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He said: “Unfortunately there is no parade or grotto planned inside the Mercat.

"I speak for myself and the rest of the event staff who used to work there when I say we are disappointed it’s not going ahead.

"It’s become something of a Christmas tradition for me to meet and greet parents and children throughout the festive season - creating magical memories for the little ones. However, it’s totally understandable and everyone’s safety is paramount.

"Doing something to allow the festivities to continue was something at the back of my mind since the original lockdown came into play in March.

"It felt wrong of me not to step up and do something for communities far and wide during Christmas - I can’t imagine being young right now without the ability to see or receive a special message from Father Christmas.

"It's a huge part of everyone’s youth and I don’t think a pandemic should ruin the magic. Cinematic, personalised videos seemed to be the most logistical option - of course live video calls were an option, but we wanted to offer something that people could keep and cherish forever.

"People can book a video (priced £10) through our website: www.fandmmedia.co.uk and an elf will send back a short questionnaire for people to fill out and the more information given, the more realistic and believable the message will be. The aim is to reassure people’s loved ones that Christmas is very much going ahead - albeit a little different - and that Santa Claus WILL be coming to town.”

The first filming day is this Friday (November 20) and for those who book after this date, projected shoot days with Santa are every Monday/Wednesday/Friday until December 23 with elves editing and sending videos out on the other days.

Ryan added: “I truly believe that this year, more than most, we must re-think what Christmas is really about - togetherness and we are thrilled to be able to retain an ounce of festivities in Kirkcaldy this Christmas.”

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