Family Campaigns for Public Return of Illuminated Santa Figure

A family is advocating for the public display of an illuminated Father Christmas figure once again. For many decades, prior to each Christmas season, the Santa was positioned atop an industrial silo belonging to Cargill PLC, situated close to Morley Street and adjacent to the River Hull. Mick Covell, who passed away from cancer in 2010, was responsible for annually placing the illuminated figure on the silo. Cargill PLC maintained the tradition of displaying Santa in tribute to Mr. Covell after relocating from Morley Street to Oak Road in Hull; however, family members state that its current visibility is restricted to the company’s employees and guests, rather than the wider public. Mike Covell, 46, a local historian and son of Mr. Covell, along with his sister Michelle Covell, 50, mentioned that two decorative Santa figures were used to ensure visibility from various angles. Mike recounted that his father had a deep affection for children. “He wanted to create a bit of magic in the city,” Mike stated, adding, “He was a working-class man and he knew how important it was to families to have things like that at Christmas time.” Ms. Goodhand commented that the illuminated Santa held significance for the entire family, likening it to a “little piece of their dad.” She further noted, “Everybody knows Mick Covell put it up.” An online petition, named ‘bring Santa back’, was initiated by Ms. Covell. Cargill PLC has been approached for a statement regarding the matter.