The Annual Santa Run

Saturday

We set off from the square at 6pm on a very cold Saturday night. Santa in his Sleigh with a huge tub of sweets by his hand. A very willing bunch of elves along side the Sleigh as we set off to tour Audlem streets and lanes. Carols singing out in the still night air as we covered all of the village, with collecting boxes rattling and rustling away with the kind donations of householders.

With Geoff Stretch, a true veteran of these popular events directing our route, it was to be seen just how few children there are now in the village. Hotspots such as Daisy Bank Crescent and Buerton Festival Avenue virtually childless now. A trend that must be worrying for our future as the population ages. and for the future of our school. Perhaps the injection of new housing will bring younger families and children back.

Sunday

Again all on parade at 5.45pm and ready for the second tour. This time to cover Hankelow, Bunsey Bank, Buerton, Paddock Lane, Kettle Lane, Kinsey Heath, Bagley Lane, Cox Bank and Swanbach.

A very cold night with snow all around us. First time ever in nearly 20 years of Santa's travels that we have carried it out in snow. At one stop a child thanked Santa for bringing Christmas Snow!

On that point it was very noticeable how many more children there were in these districts and lanes. A big contrast to Audlem streets and lanes. We even entered into a snowball fight at 8pm with the children of Buerton! Great fun and superb atmosphere. We finished at 9.30pm.

Very pleased to be back to the warmth of the Lord C and the very welcome Yorkshire puddings, rich gravy and roast potatoes provided by the excellent Allan, our host. A fine weekend and what we believe will be a record collection for our local community groups. Total figures to be advised in the next day or so.

Our very sincere thanks to Geoff Stretch, Matt Bonnell, Paul Couchman, Pam and Neil Goodyear, Ady Hassal, Kev Mort, Rick Youle for walking a total of 10 miles. And to Michael John Parkin, Wayne and Sam of Round Table. And our superb driver.

Next year we will set off earlier, say 5pm, to help folks with younger children.

On behalf of Santa and his helpers

Ralph Warburton

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