Santa Claus was particularly busy at Christmas, trying to get to as many streets as possible in Leigh and Lowton. The Rotary Club of Leigh kindly lent their sleigh to Santa whilst his own sleigh was being prepared for Christmas Eve.

Alan Smallshaw, President of the Leigh Rotary Club said, “Apart from the money we collect for local charities, our daily hard work has all been worthwhile, just to see the joy on the faces of the boys and girls, as well as mums and dads, when they came out to meet Santa and his Sleigh.

We were overwhelmed with their lovely comments, thanks and big smiles.” “Every year we seem to get larger numbers of children wanting to be photographed with Santa and many handed over bags, full of coins, which they had been saving all year!”

“The people of Leigh & Lowton have again been very generous, helping the Rotary Club to raise over £13000, which will be used to support various local groups, organisations and charities during the coming year. In view of the difficult economic climate and poor weather, this is a tremendous effort and we would like to thank the generous public who kindly donated. We are also particularly grateful for all the help we got from volunteer collectors for their hard work.”