Masked man a real Xmas crusader

SHEFFIELD, England, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- A man in Britain who dresses up as fictional comic book hero Batman and helps the needy says charities are important holiday news, not his real identity.

The unidentified man who has been working in his superhero costume at charitable sites in the British city of Sheffield said charity work should remain the focus of any attention he garners, The Daily Telegraph said Friday.

"I don't want to reveal my identity because it's more important to highlight the charities," the mysterious man said in his typical fake U.S. accent.

"I don't care if some people think I'm bonkers. If I inspire others to give their time and money to good causes this Christmas, it's been worth it."

One worker at the Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice charity shop where the imitation Batman offers his assistance said the man has truly earned the moniker "superhero."

"At first we thought he was a joker, but he turned out to be a true superhero," the unidentified worker told the Telegraph. "We're thinking of getting a Bat light installed so we can send him a signal whenever business is slow."