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Forres Rotary and Forres Fire and Rescue team bringing Santa and Don the Elf to town’s estates





Hundreds of children are enjoying visits from Santa and Don the Elf to housing estates in the run-up to Christmas.

Forres Rotary and Forres Fire and Rescue team are escorting their sleigh in the evenings from 6-8pm until Tuesday, December 17 to raise funds for worthy local causes.

The bucket collection is for local causes selected by the Rotary team in the new year.
The bucket collection is for local causes selected by the Rotary team in the new year.

Rotarian and sleigh coordinator, Andy Wardley, is calling on as many families as possible to listen out for the procession, wave to Santa, and give generously - volunteers with collection buckets accompany the pair but donations of £5 can also be made via text: FORRES to 70480.

Andy said: “Folk know Santa is on his way when they see the fire engine lights and hear the sirens, then see the vehicle towing his sleigh.

“There are loads of lights and festive music playing while Santa and his helpers wish everyone a happy Christmas. There’s also a rear vehicle to ensure the safety of everyone who comes to see him.”

He added: “The reaction is always good! We’re made to feel welcome by everyone but the kids in particular are thrilled to see. Santa finds the visits useful as he gets to know where to deliver their presents at Christmas.”

Putting Santa’s sleigh together every year is a real community effort. His trailer has a safe seating and standing area, with added space for Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Local businesses Keith Builders supply the wood, Sellars Agricultural and Mackenzie & Cruickshank the lights, the signage is by Signed Graphics at Mundole, and the covers are put together by Stitch It & Fix It sailmakers.

A local family posing with Santa and Rudolph's sleigh.
A local family posing with Santa and Rudolph's sleigh.

“It’s important to help to maintain belief in Santa and to make people happy at Christmas,” said Andy. “The funds collected go to Forres Rotary who identify local people and groups in need to distribute to in the new year. We also support the Forres Fire and Rescue team.”

Having toured Pilmuir, Thornill and Knockomie so far this week, look out for Santa’s team between 6 and 8pm at Fleurs and Mannachie tonight (Thursday), Falconer Avenue on Friday, Sanquhar and St Leonard’s Road on Monday, Bogton and Forbeshill on Tuesday.

“The sleigh tour is a great opportunity for kids to see Santa in their own town,” finished Andy. “But if they miss him, there will be another chance at Tesco Forres on Saturday, December 21 from 10am-4pm when he will be at the doors accompanied by some firemen!

“Thanks again to Tesco for allowing the Rotary to appear there - it’s a great platform for what we do.”

Thumbs up from Santa and Don the Elf.
Thumbs up from Santa and Don the Elf.
Santa waving to his fans!
Santa waving to his fans!
Santa's sleigh is supported by volunteers from Forres Fire Station and Forres Rotary.
Santa's sleigh is supported by volunteers from Forres Fire Station and Forres Rotary.


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