SANTA certainly delivered a boost for the local community in Stanford-le-Hope, Horndon on the Hill and Corringham, where the Rotary East Thurrock Club have reported a 'fabulous' two weeks of sleigh runs.

Residents who were delighted to see Santa as he wended his way through local streets £6,068.68.

A spokesperson for the club said: "This money will be used to support our help to local good causes.

"Thank you to everyone who came out to meet us. We travelled 167 miles along 98 roads supported by 33 volunteers who gave up 248 hours of their time, handed out 2,300 Christmas cards and 11kg of sweets.

"Special thanks to our friends who gave up their time to volunteer with our club members. We could not have done this without them.

"From everyone at Rotary East Thurrock, we thank you again for your generosity, and wish you all a Merry Christmas."