The cost-of-living squeeze hasn't dented the generosity of Farnham folk it seems after the town's 2022 Santa’s Sleigh tour got off to a record-breaking start in aid of Farnham Foodbank.

Families in Folly Hill and South Farnham rushed out of their homes as Santa passed by their doorsteps last week, accompanied by Christmas music and the elves from Farnham Round Table collecting donations for those struggling to put food on the table locally.

Generous onlookers donated more than £1,700 over the first two days of this year’s tour – including the most ever donated in a single day of Santa’s Sleigh tour in Farnham.

And now the reindeer have been fed and the sleigh topped up with elf dust, Santa is ready for another four rounds on his 2023 tour.

Santa’s Sleigh will also visit The Chantries tonight (Wednesday, December 14), as well as Heath End tomorrow (Thursday, December 15), Rowledge on Tuesday, December 20 and Central Farnham on Wednesday, December 21. Click on the links for route maps.

Typically Father Christmas sets out on his route at around 6pm, finishing by about 7.30pm.

One of the Round Table’s more ingenious elves has also set up the Santa Tracker at https://farnhamroundtable.org.uk/events/santa-sleigh/ so people will be able to track Santa on his route via some festive magic!

Farnham Round Table's chief elf Ian Jacob said “I’m overwhelmed by the number of smiles from people of all ages lining the streets to see Santa this year and by their generosity.

"Farnham Food Bank is needed more than ever this winter and the incredible response from families giving what they can shows the community really pulling together. Christmas spirit is still thriving in Farnham!”

Farnham Round Table’s Santa’s Sleigh – as well as events such as Farnham Fireworks, Charity Bike Ride and Christmas tree deliveries – are only made possible each year thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

Any men aged 18 to 45 interested in finding out what the sociable club is all about, are very welcome to come along to a meeting (all of which are held in local pubs over a few beers!).

To find out more or get in touch, visit the club website https://farnhamroundtable.org.uk/