A Hornchurch-based London firefighter said he owes the community “a massive thank you” after completing his annual delivery of Christmas presents to care homes and hospitals. 

Tony Gladman, 31, has been dropping off gifts to vulnerable people for the past eight years, with the donations provided by locals wanting to help spread a little festive cheer. 

“It started really small,” he said. “We used to go to one of the homes, (The Fountains Care Home in Rainham) because it’s the place where my grandad was when I was a kid.” 

The deliveries have grown since then, with Women’s Shelter among the recipients, in addition to care homes and two hospitals, Queen’s and King George. 

Romford Recorder: Initially just delivering presents to The Fountains Care Home in Rainham, Tony and his helpers now visit a range of care homes and hospitals in Havering and IlfordInitially just delivering presents to The Fountains Care Home in Rainham, Tony and his helpers now visit a range of care homes and hospitals in Havering and Ilford (Image: Tony Gladman)

Normally heading out on Christmas Day morning, Tony said that due to work commitments, this time around he dropped off the presents during the week leading up to the big day, with support from friends and family. 

He added he had received more donations than ever before, and so he wanted to pass his thanks on to the wider community. 

“A massive thank you to everyone that’s helped out with it, and everyone that helped wrap,” he said. 

Romford Recorder: Tony said he received more donations than ever beforeTony said he received more donations than ever before (Image: Tony Gladman)

His annual Christmas delivery service was not the only charity initiative Tony was involved in last year. 

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Back in the summer, he ran the London Marathon to raise money for his cousin, Bethany, who was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour earlier in the year. 

Following an event in November, Tony was able to raise £8,000, to be split between Bethany’s family and a local charity, First Step. 

On the donations, Tony said: “It was amazing, unbelievable to see the support that came out from the community, with everyone coming together to help.”