THE organisers behind a popular charity Santa sleigh event have launched an appeal for volunteers to save the much-loved Christmas tradition.

The sleigh ride, organised by Kinver Rotary Club visits Kinver, Enville, Wollaston and Wall Heath every year to spread festive joy while raising funds for local charities.

Since its launch in 1986, the sleigh rides have raised £136,000 for good causes, but now organisers at Kinver Rotary Club, faced with advancing years, illness and relocation among the membership, have an insufficient number of volunteers.

They are now calling for volunteers to help collect cash donations while the sleigh is out and about this Christmas.

The team host nine evening tours, make daytime visits to five schools, greet customers visiting Aldi stores in Wollaston and Kingswinford, support Mary Stevens Hospice Santa Jog, visit local care homes, and play an active role in Kinver village’s late night shopping event.

The team need help from 5.30pm to 9pm and to help out at supermarket collection shifts on Saturdays.

Roy Sanders, who has played a leading role throughout the life of the sleigh, said: "Like so many organisations, we were forced to cancel our Christmas activities last year and we are anxious to continue where we left off when the record collection in 2019 topped £7,000.

"But we will need help from people who may be prepared to give up a few hours to bring lots of pleasure to children, and adults, and have fun in the process while, at the same time, playing a part in a fundraising exercise which benefits charities in our area who have become even more needy in these troubled times.”

Anybody who can help should contact Roy Sanders on 01384 265477 or at rasanders@btinternet.com.