Cobourg Resident Has Been Volunteering For 18-Years At Christmas Magic

Pete Fisher
5 years ago
• Categories: Community, Editor Choice

This is the 18th year Cobourg resident David Crees has helped out with Christmas Magic.

Crees is 79-years-old, lives with his wife Margaret in Cobourg and has no other family in the area.

Simply put, the modest volunteer said, “I enjoy it.”

It all started nearly two decades ago when he was at Canadian Tire in Cobourg, having a conversation with someone in the store. They were saying the town was looking for volunteers at Christmas Magic. Since that time he’s come out each year to help.

Over the years, he’s dealt with harsh conditions including rain, snow and sleet, but nothing stops him.

“It’s still fun,” said Crees taking a short break in the Centennial Pool building on McGill Street by Victoria Park.

He’s a volunteer who has outlasted all others at Christmas Magic and the Town of Cobourg is very appreciative of his efforts.

Community Events Coordinator with the Town of Cobourg, Jackie Chapman-Davis said Crees is a “inspiration.”

“David is a wonderful community member who comes out, helps and does everything we ask and more out of the goodness of his heart.”

“He’s not afraid to jump in. During all kinds of weather he’s out there.”

Chapman-Davis said when it was announced Christmas Magic would be coming back to Victoria Park, Crees has the history of how it was set up over the years.

“It’s a happy story to know that people want to come out and help.”

Town staff are working hard setting up for Friday’s evening launch.

Chapman-Davis said they are starting fresh this year in Victoria Park and the bandshell.  They are setting up a winter scene in the bandshell complete with snowmen, but in the coming years there will be added improvements to the displays.