The Scarborough Lions annual sleigh collections begin tonight as the great man sets out on his tour of Scarborough’s villages.

The first village on his list is Ayton, which he will be visiting tonight between 5.30pm and 8pm, accompanied by his team of helpers.

Lion Pete Hampshire said: “We have been working on the sleigh this week and I think it looks great. We are all up for it, and are looking forward to the collection. It is a very enjoyable time of the year for us.

“Even in the depths of recession we continue to get support from the public, and I am sure our sleigh collections will be as successful as ever.”

During his tour Santa will be wishing a “Merry Christmas” to all residents, accompanied by Christmas carols and songs.

Money raised from the Santa colletions is used to help local charities and organisations throughout the year. Donations are to be made to Lions who will be carrying collection buckets on the night.

The tour continues on Thursday 11 as Santa makes his way through Cloughton and Burniston, before heading to Seamer on Friday 12, and Friday 19.

All street collections will run between 5.30pm and 8.30pm.

Santa and his sleigh will also be making an appearance at the Lion’s bucket collections at various supermarkets around the town. All supermarket bucket collections are between 9am and 6pm.

The Lions are also looking to attract new members at Christmas. Mr Hampshire said: “We are always looking for new members, especially this time of year when people may be thinking about giving something back to the community.”

For more information about becoming a Lion call 0845 8339892.

Santa’s schedule



Tonight - Ayton

December 10 - Proudfoot in Newby

December 11 - Cloughton and Burniston

December 12 - Seamer

December 13 - Sainsbury’s in Falsgrave

December 17 - Proudfoot in Eastfield

December 18 - Proudfoot in Newby

December 19 - Proudfoot in Seamer

December 19 - Seamer

December 20 - Morrisons

December 22 - Sainsbury’s

December 23 - Morrisons