Chichester Lions Club raised over £5,275 with their Santa carol float in December. This would not have been possible without the generosity of the residents of Chichester and the support from the staff of the Santander Bank in North Street. They responded to a request to help Santa as collectors and turned out in all weathers to aid the man in red spread joy to many and raise funds for local causes.

Many people were disappointed not to see Santa this year but his busy schedule restricted him to fewer routes, which without the volunteers may not have taken place at all.

The volunteers helped the Lions Club maintain an unbroken 48 years of bringing Santa to Chichester.

The staff of Santander Bank enjoyed their time with Santa so much that they think next year they will be able again to help Santa and the Lions raise much needed monies for local causes.

Lion President Joan Tidy thanked residents for their generosity and all the volunteers who put up with bad jokes from Santa and on occasions some very wet weather. “Lions serve the local community and are always grateful for their contributions whether monetary or verbal appreciation of what we do.”