MALTON, Norton and District Lions have smashed their own fundraising record for their hugely popular Santa’s sleigh – despite having to run a socially distanced sleigh due to Covid19 restrictions.

Over 17 night flights around Malton, Norton and surrounding villages, Santa and his band of elves raised £20,204.96.

Lion President, Di Keal, said: “We are frankly amazed, but absolutely delighted by this years total, which considering the difficult circumstances is just wonderful.

“I would like to thank everyone who made Santa’s tour possible and such a success, including our fantastic business sponsors and everyone who donated in person, on line and by text.

"Every penny we raise goes towards supporting vulnerable local people, so everyone who contributes makes a huge difference to the help we can give.”

Di added: “From Santa and his elves to all the ‘backsleigh crew’ who maintain the sleigh, wash Santa’s socks, manage his social media and plan the routes – everyone has pulled out all the stops this year.

“And extra special thanks must go to Chief Elf and Deputy President, Annie Harrison, who got the whole show on the road with such brilliance – hours of preparation go into the sleigh and this year’s fantastic total is a tribute to all Annie’s hard work.”

Thanks to the Gazette & Herald and Morrison’s, the Lions also used a colouring competition to advertise Santa’s tour.

Winners were Elizabeth Denly, 4, and Cameron Dukes, 10 who received their prizes just in time for Christmas.

Lion President Di said: “It was really difficult to choose winners as we had some lovely pictures entered in the competition, but we loved Elizabeth’s imaginative design adding some cheeky robins to the sleigh and Cameron’s number one wish for Christmas ‘to see the end of Covid19’ – a sentiment we can all agree on.

She added: “Many thanks to everyone who entered and congratulations to our winners.”