Des publishes new Santa book

A NORTHSIDE man has published a book that he hopes will capture the imagination of children leading up to Christmas. 

Des Murphy (81), from Thorndale, Artane, has written ‘Santa’s Pocket Book Collection’ which features stories and illustrations. 

The book is divided into three sections: ‘The Noble Art of Giving’, ‘Santa’s Healthy Eating Plan’ and ‘Rudolph’s Story’.

Since retiring from his job at the former Irish Glass Bottle Company in Ringsend, Des has written a number of books about Dublin, including subjects such as the capital’s churches and bridges and on 1916. Des is well-known locally for the amount of effort he puts into decorating his house at Christmas following the craze that spread to Ireland at the beginning of the Noughties. 

Photographs of his house, which appeared in this newspaper at the time, had a huge impact with visitors travelling to see his work first-hand. 

“I got the idea for the lights when I was in America,” said Des. 

“I saw all these fairy lights on the houses in the States and I thought it was amazing. I brought the idea back to my own place and started doing it in 2000.”

There was a major boost for charity when his Christmas house decorating exploits took off. “Since 2000, I have donated approximately 100k to various charities around Dublin,” said Des. 

“The money came from donations made by people visiting my house.”

Des said a considerable amount of any profits made from the book will go to a homeless charity. 

“It’s a story in three parts and is very educational for children. I hope that people will be interested in buying it in the run up to Christmas.”

Des is also looking for a sponsor who will help with the cost of the printing.

•‘Santa’s Pocket Book Collection’ costs €10. If you would like to purchase a copy, contact Des on 01-8312947.