A NEWPORT landlady has raised more than £3,000 for two charities after opening her home up as a Christmas grotto.

Sheila Gill, 73, who lives in Stow Hill, has raised over £1 million throughout her life and this was the latest in her never-ending support towards people that need it.

She raised the money by turning her house into a winter wonderland display featuring two grottos, and holding a raffle at her pub, the Picton Arms in Pill.

At a charge of £1 per visitor, her garden was open to the public throughout December to bring their children along to visit Santa and enjoy the display she had created.

“I chose to give the money to Casey’s Cause and Dreams and Wishes as I’ve read stories about them in the Argus and they really touched me,” said Mrs Gill. “It’ll be great to see the money presented.

“It’s not so much about me but the people of Pill have been fantastic. The raffle had stuff donated and also people have given me unwanted Christmas lights to decorate the outside of my house with.

“None of this would’ve been possible with the people of Pill and I massively appreciate it.”

Of the money raised, £2,000 will be given to Casey’s Cause whilst Dreams and Wishes will receive £1,300.

Casey’s Cause is the Hard family’s fundraising initiative to raise funds for their disabled son Casey Hard, who was born with severe brain damage.

Dreams and Wishes – Newport County’s youth team shirt sponsor – is a volunteer-ran charity dedicated to helping seriously ill children by aiming to make their dreams and wishes come true.

“It was the second year I’ve done the display at my house,” added Mrs Gill. “Next year’s will be even bigger and better.

“People have donated lights and I’ll keep adding to it and hopefully it can be even more spectacular so that we can raise more money.”

Newport boxer Sean McGoldrick and County’s Michael Flynn will be at the Picton Arms on Sunday presenting £3,300 the landlady has raised for Casey’s Cause and Dreams and Wishes.

The cheque presentation will take place at 2pm for anyone who wishes to attend.