A family are hosting a surprise Christmas to bring some needed cheer amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The family of four, who are currently in isolation, decided to get the decs out to have a cheap and cheerful Christmas Day on Thursday, March 19.
Mum-of two Laura Burke said the idea came about when she was discussing what makes the family happy with her partner, David Haines, 39.
They love Christmas, and the joy it brings, so decided to put the decs up overnight to give their two children - Matilda, three, and Dorothy, 18 months - a day of much-needed happiness.
Laura, who works to offer mental health support and training to businesses, said: “We have been doing Instagram videos for anyone who has started to feel fear or anxiety.
“People listed what things make people happy to do more of them.”
Talking about her eldest daughter, she added: “She pulled out her Christmas jumper saying ‘can I wear this today please?’
“My partner and I love Christmas day and we said we should have a surprise Christmas.
“We pulled out the Christmas tree and put some decorations on it.
“We put the stockings out. We put books in the stockings for the girls.”
Laura, 38, explained the couple did all this overnight to surprise the children and for the family to simply experience some joy for the day.
No money has been spent - they simply put the decs up, have roasted some vegetables they had to hand and have spent some time singing Christmas songs around the house.
“We have been in isolation since Tuesday,” Laura added.
“Monday evening my eldest had a high temperature so we did what everyone else did.
“It’s hard, it’s tough - so anything that lifts your spirits.
“It’s brought so much joy and we are having such a lovely day.”
Laura, who lives in Bridgend, said since posting about the idea on social media many people have expressed their wishes to do the same.
Even if you can’t get your decorations out the family is encouraging people in isolation to lift their moods by singing some festive tunes and embracing the Christmas spirit.
“It brings so much joy to people,” said Laura.
“You can do something to lift the spirit.”
Speaking about the children, Laura added: “They know it’s only for one day.
“They know it’s not really Christmas.
“We will probably do a surprise Christmas every year if times are tough, and put the tree up.”
To find out more about the support Laura offers, and follow her journey in isolation, visit her Instagram page - her account is called withlaurab.
