We set out to raise some smiles in three cities with treats and a helping hand — here is how strangers reacted
THE Sun on Sunday has been spreading cheer across the country with random acts of kindness.
We went to work after a study found 44 per cent of us think selflessness is in decline, with people in Bristol, Southampton and Swansea named the least charitable.
So to mark today’s National Random Acts Of Kindness Day, we set out to raise some smiles.
We visited three cities with treats and a helping hand. Here is how strangers reacted...
MANCHESTER has been named as one of the UK’s kindest cities.
But pensioners Frank and Trinny McGowan still can’t believe it when I stop them in the street to offer doughnuts. “I thought you were joking!” said 74-year-old Trinny.
Frank, 77, agrees: “You rarely get something for nothing, but it doesn’t take much to be nice does it?”
Fifty seven per cent of us say we would be shocked if a stranger was kind to us. And couple Brad Neville, 25, and Georgie Corbett, 23, are stunned when we pay for their pasties.
“I’m shocked. People never do selfless things like this,” said recruiter Brad.
Security officer Robert Mott, 64, is touched when we offer him cakes to enjoy on his break.
He said: “We work long shifts to make sure the streets are safe. These will give me and my colleagues a lift.”
Health visitor Amber Bennett, 30, is struggling to get ten-month-old son Reid to settle and can’t believe it when we hand her chocolates. She shares them with mum, Tracy Roberts, 48, and sister Indigo Roberts, 26, a nurse.
Amber said: “Thank you for being so considerate. You’ve turned my horrible day around.”
IN one of the UK’s least friendly cities we were keen to spread some happiness.
Sitting on a cold bench, retiree Gillian Shutt looks down so we step in. The 61-year-old is delighted to be given a bunch of flowers.
“That’s a lovely thing to do,” she beams. “You’ve made me so happy.”
Charity volunteers Nigel Bateman and Robin Johnson have been outside all week and gratefully accept a hot drink.
“Thanks, it’s chilly today and I needed this,” said 62 year-old Nigel.
Robin, 59, agrees. “You have really brightened up my day.”
Stressed mum Maxine Whiting, 43, is stunned to be offered chocolates and takes some persuading that there’s no catch.
The travel consultant said: “I’m frazzled from the school run. Now I will be in a good mood all day. A little kindness goes so far.”
Elaine Bell is out shopping and smiles when we hand her tulips. The 65-year-old said: “What a selfless gesture.”
AT Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter in Benton we deliver a bag of treats and toys for the animals, plus chocolates for the hard-working staff.
Duty Manager Matthew Davison, 32, says “You’ve put a grin on my face. It’s really lovely to see the kind side of people.”
At the city’s fire station we drop off doughnuts. Watch manager Trevor Sturrock, 42, said: “What a nice surprise. We’ve had a hectic day so we’ll enjoy them.”
Pharmacy dispenser Ann Raine, 53, is amazed to be given flowers while dashing around on her lunch break.
She said: “I was just looking at flowers and thinking how nice it would be to get some – and you’ve done it!” And pregnant Rachael Fountain does a double take as we hand her doughnuts on her walk to work.
The 34-year-old secretary said: “I’m expecting a baby girl in three weeks and today’s my last day at work – now I can celebrate with these. I love sweet things.
“How nice to know you really can still depend on the generosity of strangers.”
