Jack and Grandad puppets get a new lease of life thanks to grant

The Sutton Coldfield-based charity was awarded a grant of £3,185 by SCCT – which they used to commission new bespoke puppets of their long-time children’s characters.

Founded in 2000 by family man Andi Markham, Kids UK have delivered assemblies, mentoring and events in schools and churches across the country, with the aim of sharing Christian moral values and safety advice.

Now, with brand new versions of Andi’s much-loved ‘little guys’, the Kids UK team can’t wait to hit the road and spread the good news.

Andi said: “This week I used the new puppets in a primary school for the first time, and the children loved them!

“We always get such a positive response to our Jack and Grandad shows – it was a great first outing for our new puppets.”

Andi’s “Jack & Friends” performances have become so popular with children that Kids UK now sell DVDs starring the characters on their website, delivering vital lessons on topics such as fire and water safety, right and wrong, the treatment of animals and gratitude.

One of the areas in which SCCT makes grants is to support the advancement of religion, recognising how all faiths make a major contribution to life in Sutton Coldfield.

Andi said: “I like to use puppets, songs and filmmaking to really engage children with God’s truth. It strikes a chord with them, and over the years I’ve seen so many families and children transformed by the power of God.

“As a father myself, I know the importance of teaching children moral values and safety. It’s such rewarding work to see the kids connecting with the values we share.”

The Kids UK team expressed gratitude to SCCT for helping them keep their impactful children’s shows running with their wonderful new puppets.

Andi said: “We really appreciate the Trustees making this possible. Our new puppets are beautiful, and we’re all so thankful for them.”