A COMMUNITY group has raised thousands of pounds thanks to its tour with Santa.

Maldon Rotary Club was out with its Santa sleigh from late November and raised £5,000.

A spokesman said: “A huge thank you is due to all who gave so generously while enjoying seeing Santa and his helpers.

“In Maldon High Street, people again contributed to our Christmas appeal giving more than £600 towards Christmas parties for people in care homes. To all who have helped us, we couldn’t do it without you.”

Groups which benefited includes the Maldon Talking Newspapers, Maldon Society, Maldon in Bloom, Maldon Primary School, Plume Academy, David Randall Foundation, the Big Sing and Maldon Scouts.