Watch James don female Santa outfit and get dancing in the streets to support mental health after loss of friend

The words of James Revell who after his friend took his own life decided to dress in a female Santa outfit and take to the streets of Wearside to raise money for the mental health charity SANE.

James, 26, from Pennywell, said: “It was earlier this year. My friend had been struggling with his mental health. It was 1.30am in the morning and he was trying to get some support and he couldn’t get through on any of the phone lines.

“He tragically ended up taking his own life.”

The idea of dressing in a female Santa outfit all started as a bit of joke.

James said: “I put the costume on at a Christmas party and started dancing around and it got a great response, and so I decided to try and use the idea to raise money.

“After what happened to my friend I knew I wanted to raise money for a mental health charity. SANE were the first to respond and got me a fundraising permit.”

Between December 19 and 24 James and his brother-in-law Robert Hipkin - who joined him for two days - took their festive dance routine to the streets of Sunderland, Washington, Houghton-le-Spring, and Durham to raise £689 in their collection bucket.

James said: “To be honest, I’m really pleased with how much we raised in just five days. But it’s not just about money. If you are struggling with your mental health then please reach out and aske someone to listen - it’s far better than potentially having to go to your friend’s funeral.”

James posted videos of his dance routines - which were filmed by friend Bradley Moody - on social media to help raise awareness of his cause.

Next year (2026) he plans on taking his dance routine nationwide, to raise further money and awareness.

SANE is a mental health charity which aims to “raise awareness, improve services, provide emotional support and host research”.