The annual 'sleigh' runs in residential areas across Carlisle have raised more than £5,500 for charities supported by Rotary.

The three local Rotary clubs operated the sleigh on 11 nights between them, under the "Rotary in Carlisle" banner.

Local fundraisers hired the sleigh for a further three nights. This included a team from North Cumbria Search and Rescue collecting money in Harraby to fund their own activities and staff from David Allen raising money for Hospice at Home with collections in Stanwix and Morton. A run planned for Dalston had to be cancelled due to bad weather.

The takings from all 14 nights make up the final total of £5,500. Charities supported in the past have included Carlisle Foodbank and the Cumbria Winter Warmth Fund.

The sleigh is owned by the Rotary Club of Carlisle Castle which hires it out to other Rotary clubs and community groups.

"This is another great result for our sleigh runs," said Philip Royle, president of Carlisle castle rotary club.

"We really enjoy working alongside our fellow Rotary clubs and the other community organisations - and not just at Christmas time.

"It's important to take the sleigh to as many different communities as possible and give as many children as possible a chance to interact with Santa.

"The smiles on their faces say it all. This year our own club took the sleigh to Raffles, Botcherby, Currock and Belah.  

"We were pleased to include members of those communities in our teams most nights.

"The money we raise on the sleigh runs is also important and allows Rotary in Carlisle to support a wide range of charities who are doing great work in the city and around the world.

"We'd like to thank everyone who was kind enough to donate this year."

Planning for this year's sleigh runs has already begun. Details will be posted in early December on the "Rotary Carlisle Santa" Sleigh Facebook page. 

All three Rotary clubs are always pleased to welcome new members - men and women of all different ages and backgrounds who want to make  difference in their own community but also support projects improving lives around the world - search for them online or on Facebook.