FATHER Christmas is getting ready to ride around the streets of Colchester in his sleigh to spread some festive cheer.

A festive fundraiser which has been putting smiles on the faces of residents for more than 40 years is returning to the city once again.

Santa and his helpers will be riding around Colchester for 11 nights this month to help bring the magic of Christmas to the city.

Gazette: Fundraiser - Colchester Roundtable 367 with Santa and his sleighFundraiser - Colchester Roundtable 367 with Santa and his sleigh

Where in Colchester will Santa be visiting in December?

The routes for this year’s event are:

  • December 11: Mile End and Braiswick, starting at the corners of Mill Road and Raven Way
  • December 12: Maldon Road area, starting at the corners of Maldon Road and Capel Road
  • December 13: New Town, starting at the corners of Port Lane and Artillery Street
  • December 14: Prettygate, starting at the corners of Ambrose Avenue and Worthington Way
  • December 18: Wheatfield Road area, starting at the corners of New Farm and Wheatfield Road
  • December 19: Riverside area, starting at the corners of Exeter Drive and Guildford Road
  • December 20: St Micheal’s estate, starting at the corners of Baronswood Way and Oakapple Close
  • December 21: West Bergholt, starting at the corners of Maltings Park Road and Colchester Road

The annual fundraiser is organised by Colchester Roundtable 367, a charity based in the city.

Its chairman, Gary Rupping, said: “It’s amazing to see the smiles on the faces of people who come out to see Santa and his sleigh, and the donations make a real difference to local organisations who benefit from the kindness of our city’s residents.”

The money raised this year will be donated to Beacon House, Colchester Foodbank, Colchester Sea Scouts, Korban Project, Ladies Circle, Next Chapter, Open Road, St Helena Hospice, the Rob George Foundation, Robin Cancer Trust, and Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation.

To donate or find out more about each route, visit colchestersantasleigh.co.uk.