SANTA Claus proved as popular as ever at a garden centre in Twyford, raising an incredible £3,500 for charity during his stay at Christmas.
Nearly 1,200 children visited Santa’s grotto at Hare Hatch Sheeplands, in Bath Road, during the 12 days it was open.
Volunteers from the Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh made sure that Father Christmas and his elf helpers were always in attendance to welcome visitors.
On Friday (22) the club’s President Rose Burgess and Treasurer Tim Pascall collected the money, which was handed over by Andrea Burlingham from Sheeplands.
Rose Burgess said: “Various local and international charities plus various good causes will benefit including Mustard Seed Communities in Jamaica where I was born. It is my charity of the year and helps disadvantaged young people.
“Locally we are also helping Camp Mohawk at Wargrave as well as a number of other beneficiaries.”
Tim Pascall added “We are grateful to Hare Hatch Sheeplands for helping us again. So many grottos are now run for commercial benefit that’s it’s wonderful to find one still willing to help charitable causes.”
Andrea Burlingham said “We try very hard to be a good neighbour in the local community and this is just part of our effort. I can confirm that we will be happy to be home to Santa’s grotto again next Christmas.”
