BOXER Michael Conlon donated a massive £5,000 to a west Belfast community group this week to help with its annual Christmas appeal.
The well-known sportsman visited Whiterock Children's Centre on the Whiterock Road to hand over the donation which will help the centre support young people and their families this festive season.
Last year, the centre supported more than 200 children at Christmas.
It began this year's appeal early as it anticipates an increase demand for its help due to the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The centre usually asks for donations of gifts, however, in a bid to avoid spreading coronavirus, the team has this year asked for vouchers for major stores to be donated.
These will then be allocated to where there the need is in the Upper Springfield and Whiterock areas.
The team have asked that any vouchers be donated to them by Monday, December 6.
A PayPal link is also due to be opened in the coming days so money can be directly transferred to the appeal.
Sharon Nelson, Family Learning Manager at Whiterock Children's Centre, said the team was "absolutely delighted" with Michael Conlon's donation.
"It is great that someone within our community is looking to give back into our community and we are very grateful for it," she said.
"We have always depended on clubs in the past making donations but we are very conscious this year it may be different for a lot of people who may not be able to give in the same way.
"If there is anyone out there who potentially thinks this is something they would like to do, get in touch with us."
Sharon added: "We have been really busy already with people requesting help from the appeal.
"Any donation that anyone can give will be very well received," she said.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact Sharon or Maura at Whiterock Children's Centre on 02890 438438 or 07999506918.
Further details are available on the Whiterock Children's Centre Facebook page.
