VOLUNTEERS from the Thurrock branch of the Re-engage charity joined members of the Rotary Club of Mar Dyke Valley on a recent Santa Sleigh run around the streets of Kenningtons in Aveley.

Links between the Mar Dyke club and Re-engage, which supports elderly, lonely and vulnerable people in the Thurrock area, are longstanding and string – with the club regularly making donations to the charity from its fundraising events, which also include Thurrock's annual cycle marathon.

Regional organiser for Re-engage Loraine Coleman said: "Re-engage Thurrock enjoyed a perfectly lovely and festive evening joining Mardyke Valley on their Santa Sleigh Run

"A very big thank you to the residents of Kenningtons for their wonderful generosity. It was truly heart-warming to see the excitement and joy on the children's faces as Santa arrived.

"Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers, and to Jen Craft for being one of Santa's helpers and supporting such a special community event.

"I'd like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a very happy and joyful Christmas on behalf of Re-engage Thurrock."