Thanks to the generosity of residents across the borough, a local Rotary group has raised more than £11,000 to support local charities with its annual sleigh.

Horwich Rotary Club is thanking residents for their support in donating to the Santa’s Sleigh collection and for those who volunteered as Santa’s elves.

This comes just weeks after the Rotary Father Christmas and his elves took to the streets of Horwich and Blackrod and were delighted to receive a warm welcome from local residents of all ages.

The money raised will be used this year, supporting initiatives including The Youth Achievement Awards, the Senior Citizens' Party, and more.

A Horwich Rotary spokesperson said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to all the people of Horwich and Blackrod who have donated to the Santa's Sleigh Collection in the weeks preceding Christmas.

The Bolton News: Members of Horwich RotaryMembers of Horwich Rotary (Image: Charlene Bessell)

“And to those who volunteered to walk the streets, dressed as Santa's elves in all sorts of weather collecting, or collected in the supermarkets.

“Also, a massive thank you to Bolton Kia for providing the vehicle to tow the sleigh, to ENV Graphics of Hindley for customising the vehicle, Roy Davies for his work in renovating the sleigh, and Tesco, Iceland, and Aldi for allowing us to collect in or outside their shops.

“Your generosity has been wonderful, and we have raised over £11,000 which will be used over the coming year to support initiatives such as The Youth Achievement Awards, Senior Citizens' Party, and donations to the other worthy causes.”

If you would like to know more about Horwich Rotary, become a member, or a "Friend of Rotary" email the Secretary (sec.horwich.rotary@gmail.com).

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on X @chloewjourno.