RICHARDS Bay’s sea scouts spread Christmas cheer to sailors aboard ships at the local port on Wednesday and Friday when they handed out more than 500 mugs filled with goodies.
A fire engine sounding sirens and carrying ‘Father Christmas’ on its roof beckoned the hundreds of seamen to their vessels’ decks to receive their surprise packages.
This was the eight consecutive year the 1st Richards Bay Sea Scout Group ensured the seafarers woke up to a gift on Christmas morning, as well as Boxing Day this year.
Group Scouter Liz Wood said the initiative was started to remember those who are far from their homes and loved ones during the festive season.
‘I’d like to thank each and every person who made this possible,’ said Wood.
‘We would never have been able to pull it off once again without the Zululand community’s support.
‘Richards Bay is the only scout group in the country spearheading the Mug Project and the South African Scout Association have emphasised their hope for this to take place at every port in the country.
‘We are very proud to have piloted this wonderful initiative.’
Each wrapped coffee mug handed to the men was filled with sweets, biscuits and a few essentials.
