Grinch 'wants to bring smiles to people's faces'

A man who has gone viral for his videos dressed as the Grinch has said it all started as "something daft" to entertain his grandchild.

Matt Duynstee, known as the Nuneaton Grinch, started off dressed as Santa in his back garden in an attempt to be a "cool Grandad", however the following year he decided to "up his game".

Fours years later and Mr Duynstee said videos of his visits to parts of the town, including schools and businesses, kept getting "bigger and bigger".

Earlier this month his content received millions of views after he posted a video where he directed traffic and helped an ambulance pass queuing vehicles while he was out waving to drivers.

Although he does not charge for his appearances, Mr Duynstee said he did receive donations and wanted to choose a charity that "suited" the character.

"For the last two years I've chosen to donate them to Nuneaton & Warwickshire Wildlife Sanctuary.

"The Grinch being a furry creature and it being local to Nuneaton, it just fits the bill and they [the wildlife sanctuary] deserve a lot more," he added.

The Nuneaton Grinch's videos have attracted the attention of Sir Stephen Fry, who posted a social media video to promote Mr Duynstee's annual "Grinchfest".

The fundraising event, which took place in the town on Thursday, is in its third year and features market stalls and musical performances, as well as an appearance from the Christmas-loathing character.

"I want to raise money, but my primary thing is wanting to bring smiles to people's faces at Christmas," Mr Duynstee said.

"I've been warmly received wherever I go, I receive a lot of positive feedback particularly around mental health and the impact that its had on a people", he added.

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