Generous residents have been thanked after thousands of pounds were amassed for charities during the Christmas period when Santa came to town.

During December, Santa began his annual visit with Ramsbottom Rotary to raise some festive cheer and funds for local and international charities.

After visiting Ramsbottom, Greenmount, Holcombe Brook, Hawkshaw and surrounding areas, just three weeks of touring helped to raise £6,500.

Visits with Santa began on Friday, December 2 and continued until Friday, December 23.

Families lined the streets as they heard the sleigh arriving, and children had the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes with Santa.

Rotary club president Jon Lövgreen said: “We want to thank the good folk of Ramsbottom, young and old, who took the time to visit and talk to us, or to wave from their houses.

Bury Times: Ramsbottom Rotary visits local families with Santa Ramsbottom Rotary visits local families with Santa (Image: public)

“We know it is a busy time and that things may be more difficult for many this year, so we have been overwhelmed at the warm welcome and the great generosity of the donations given.”

Some of the charities receiving donations included Ukrainian Refugees, Speakeasy, Margaret Haes Riding Centre and Bury Hospice.

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Jon added: “The donations will be used to help a number of deserving charities.

"Each year, our visit to families around Ramsbottom reminds us of what our work is all about.”

As part of the club’s commitment to charities and communities, the club of 18 rotarians were joined by "friends of rotary".

Some of these included the local scout group, primary school parent teacher associations, Margaret Haes Riding Centre, Ramsbottom Pantry and Home Instead. 

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Following the tour, the club thanked ISM Waste and Recycling, Greaves Fluid Processing Solutions and Bettamix for their generosity and help to maintain Santa’s sleigh.

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