Volunteer’s 30 year charity crusade raises £750,000

Published by Laura Beckett for Halton Housing Trust in Communities and also in Housing

A man from Widnes has raised £750,000 for local causes over the last thirty years.

Chris Noon, 60, a Halton Housing Trust customer, has worked tirelessly since the 1970s to help people in need throughout Runcorn and Widnes.

Chris is a familiar face at Barnardos in Albert Square in Widnes, where he volunteers “as often as possible” and he’s also an active member of the St Vincent De Paul Society, where he raises money for families in need. As part of this, Chris often visits lonely people in their homes, providing much needed company. He also raises money so children from low incomes families can go on holiday.

Pam Bimpson, manager of Barnardos in Albert Square, is very impressed with Paul’s dedication, saying: “Chris is a very genuine person and helps out on the shop whenever he can, usually most days. He’s very good with people and he carries out endless work for charity – he loves giving a helping hand.”

The hardworking volunteer also raises money for local food banks and his help extends to Liverpool, where he raises money for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital by hosting bingo and raffle nights, as well as helping to man a soup kitchen on Seel Street.

Malcolm Finnegan, secretary of the St Vincent De Paul Society in St Bede’s said: “Chris lives selflessly and he dedicates a tremendous amount of time to helping others. He does all this this quietly, without making a fuss. He really is an inspiration.”

Chris hosts bingo nights at Widnes Bowling Club on Milton Road every Wednesday, with all money raised going to local charities. If you would like to come along, arrive at the club for a 9pm start for a chance to win.