VOLUNTEERS from Malvern Hills Round Table raised £3,696 as part of last year's Santa Sleigh.

The proceeds have been split evenly between Acorns Children’s Hospice and Malvern Special Families.

Alex Saunders-Smith, Malvern Hills Round Table chairman, said: “The local community has been fantastic, coming out in force to see Santa and his elves, even when the weather was cold and unpleasant.

"Seeing how much joy it brought the kids was reward itself but in addition to that to raise as much as we did for two amazing charities was brilliant and a testament to the generosity of the public, especially at the moment when things are tight.”

Gareth Jones, from Malvern Special Families, said: “The members of Malvern Hills Round Table have once again excelled themselves by raising a massive £3,696.

"This will be shared by Malvern Special Families and Acorns Children’s Hospice. This money will have a huge impact on the children we support, all of whom have complex needs, and means they will be able to go on many more exciting trips now.

"I know how much work goes into these events, not only on the days Santa arrives on his sleigh but in the months beforehand making sure all the relevant logistics and permissions are in place.

"The members of Malvern Hills Round Table have boundless energy and enthusiasm and are passionate about supporting local charities and are a real credit to Worcestershire.

"I would also like to thank all the volunteers, Brook Hire and BH Motors, who provided the transport, and most importantly the members of the public who gave so generously, proving once again local charities are close to everyone’s hearts. On behalf of all the children and families we support I say a massive thank you.”

The round table also thanked Ballards and Splunk for financial donations and Brook Hire for loaning the vehicle used to tow Santa.