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It’s usually children who ask Santa for something at Christmas but this year, the Lions Club of St Austell is reaching out to the community for help to keep Santa’s sleigh on its rounds through our neighbourhoods, writes Alex Duff.
Celebrating 50 years of joy
For 50 years, the Santa Sleigh project has brought joy to children in St Austell.
Every December, Santa, blasting Christmas music, travels door-to-door and street-to-street, accompanied by volunteers who bring festive cheer, give out sweets, and collect donations for community projects.
But now Santa Sleigh faces a problem – as Tony Pickup, longstanding Lions Club member shared with Cheryl Gordon, on CHAOS Radio’s weekday Breakfast Show.
“The Lions Club of St Austell was formed 54 years ago and we’re all getting a lot older,” says Tony. “Sadly, we don’t seem to be able to attract as many young members to the Lions as we’d like, which is bringing challenges.”
One of those challenges is finding enough volunteers to keep the Lions Club’s beloved Santa Sleigh tradition running.
Year-round community impact
Santa’s Sleigh not only delights local children, many of whom are seeing Santa for the first time, but also supports various community projects throughout the year with the funds raised.
Last year, the sleigh raised over £3,000, with the funding assisting local athletes to compete internationally, through the Lord Lieutenant’s Fund, and provided new jackets for the St Austell Youth Band.
“So now they’re a little dryer and happier when they are out marching,” says Kate Voyle from the Lions, who also joined Cheryl. “The skill of some of these youngsters is really quite astounding.”
How you can help keep Santa’s sleigh moving
“This year, Santa needs your help more than ever,” says Cheryl. “Let’s not let this amazing project stop,” she continues, recalling the magic of the sleigh’s visit during her childhood. “Just a couple of hours or a couple of pounds can make a big difference.”
The sleigh sets off from Sandy Hill on Monday, 2nd December at 5pm, visiting different areas each weekday night, for three weeks. If you can spare a few hours this December, the Lions Club of St Austell would love to hear from you.
But if volunteering isn’t possible, your donations are equally valuable. Follow the Lions Club St Austell Cornwall on Facebook for daily updates and look out for Santa’s sleigh to contribute to the collection bucket. Your support helps keep the sleigh going and to fund other vital community projects.
“One of the biggest joys is looking at children’s faces when they see Santa for the first time,” concludes Tony. “We’d really love to get some more helpers on the sleigh this year to keep it going and share in these moments.”
For updates on the Santa Sleigh project, Santa’s route, and how you can contribute, follow the Lions Club of St Austell Cornwall on Facebook, email staustelllions@btinternet.com or visit their website.
#KeepItCHAOS
