Santa Larry’s memory lives on at Royal City Centre.
The mall is once again holding a toy drive in memory of Larry Tamkin (Santa Larry), who was Santa at Royal City Centre and Woodward’s department store for 45 years prior to his death in March 2018. Last year’s toy drive resulted in an “amazing” response from community members and was a moving experience for Tamkin’s wife Susan (a.k.a. Mrs. Claus).
Royal City Centre is holding a toy drive from the time Santa arrives on Saturday, Nov. 30 until Dec. 22. Like last year, the toys will be dispersed to the pediatric ward at Royal Columbian Hospital, New Westminster Family Place, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society and St. Barnabas Church.
Until Dec. 22, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the mall on Fridays from 2 to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.