A Bromsgrove football club and business have stepped in to save the community’s much-loved Santa Sleigh.

The magical event, which sees Santa ride his sleigh down local roads over 12 nights, holds a special place in the hearts of residents with The Bromsgrove Roundtable putting in great efforts each year to make it possible.

But hundreds of people were left disappointed this year when it was announced on October 23 via the Facebook page ‘Spotted Bromsgrove’ that the Santa Sleigh would not go ahead in 2023.

Thankfully, committee members from Bromsgrove Rovers AFC and the leading vehicle transportation company, Bromsgrove Logistics, quickly came up with a plan to save the event.

Vice Chair of Bromsgrove Rovers AFC, Ian Hannis, said: "Bryn Davies, Mark Whitehouse and myself all felt that this is something that was Important to Bromsgrove as an annual event and brings the people and town together.

“So, when we heard it might not happen anymore, we spoke to The Bromsgrove Round Table and set to building a team of people and businesses to ensure that it could happen.”

Since the initial discussion, The Ladies Circle have also volunteered their valuable services for the event supporting the football club and Bromsgrove Logistics in their mission to continue the traditional for years to come.

As well as bringing Christmas cheer to onlookers, the event also supports many charities in the area including the North Worcestershire Basement Project, The Sidemoor Community Project and other foodbanks.

Owner of Bromsgrove Logistics, Paul Melbourne, said: “Growing up in Bromsgrove, the sleigh was always a significant start to Christmas.

“Being a local business and in a position where we can help has been fantastic, so hopefully we can continue for many years to come.”

Not only will the Santa Sleigh be seen throughout the roads within the town, but it will be making some special appearances throughout December.

This includes the Catshill Village’s Christmas light switch-on event on Saturday, November 25 along with some other top-secret locations.

The evening route starts on Monday, December 4 in the Haywood Park and Rutherford Road area.

Anyone who wants to volunteer can email bromsgrovesanta@gmail.com with more information found on the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Bromsgrove.Santa

Donations to the cause can be made at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/2023-bromsgrove-santa-sleigh

Updates to follow after the schedule with exact dates and locations is finalised.