DESPITE adverse weather conditions which affected Santa’s schedule, the traditional Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club sleigh collection still raised thousands of pounds for charity.

Starting at Halesowen’s Christmas lights switch on event on November 18, the Rotarians took their specially made sleigh through the streets of the area finishing their tour just days before Christmas.

Rotarian Alan Bowler said: “As usual we have had great support from the local community who have come out in their numbers to meet Santa.

“People really do look forwards to the sleigh coming out year after year, and it’s one of the highlights of the year for the club.”

However, it wasn’t all plain sailing for Santa and his team of Elves, as the influx of snow in December played havoc with the planned route.

Although some of the visits having to be rescheduled, it didn’t stop hundreds of people across Halesowen and Rowley Regis coming out to help raise more than £7,700 for the Rotary club’s supported local charities.

Sue Hannaford, honorary secretary of the club, added: “Once again the Rotary Club of Halesowen and Rowley Regis has to say a big thank you to the people of the towns for their generous support over the period of our Christmas appeal.

“From the first outing at the Christmas lights switch on, to the last on December 21, Santa and his sleigh, together with his ‘Elves’ were greeted with much enthusiasm, both at the static and round the roads visits.

“Altogether Santa made 21 appearances around and about, even after having been ‘snowed off’ for five days and evenings in mid-December.

“Santa’s sleigh is a well-established annual sight around the towns in November and December, and brings a lot of happiness and wonderment to the very many children of all ages – thrilled that Santa has come to their road to see them.

“In spite of adverse conditions we managed to match last year’s collection with a total of £7,780 being raised for good causes.”

Plans for the Rotary club’s 2018 Santa sleigh tour are already underway.