This week we were with the Rotary Club of Bexley's Santa Sleigh, collecting donations and giving out sweets as part of the Community Hospice's team of volunteers.

There were other volunteers too, including an exuberant bunch of Police Cadets.

Santa arrived a little late (may have been traffic on the way from the North Pole?) and Faye from the Hospice was on hand to brief us and give out the hi viz jackets and collecting buckets.

Karen and I had a photo with Santa and Faye, then the Christmas music was turned on and after a few pics with some of the children we were off!

People were out on the streets in their hundreds, smiling, waving, dancing and singing along to the Christmas tunes.

Santa was on top form, waving and posing for many photos. One child exclaimed, “I can’t believe Santa is in my street!” Memories to last a lifetime for the local children (and adults!) .

We were so impressed by the young cadets who were polite and confident in their efforts to knock on doors and fill their buckets.

The route covered over 5 miles - that's a pretty good walk on a chilly, drizzly evening!

At the end the buckets were emptied and the remaining sweets were divvied up among the helpers, then we were off home, waving Santa on his merry way.

A great evening was had by all.

That's a wrap for 2024. Merry Christmas and here's to lots more good deeding in our local community next year. 🎅🥂