A FESTIVE event run by Bordon fire fighters has raised more than £2,000 for The Firefighters Charity.

During the Christmas season, they hosted a drive-through Santa’s grotto that saw more than 300 presents given to local children.

It also lifted the spirits of the community while raising funds for the charity.

The youngsters also had the chance to speak to Santa and see his dancing elves from the comfort of their own car.

Toys and gifts were donated by local charities, with Christmas lights and decorations supplied by DJ Disco Darren.

The event was free, but those who went along were encouraged to make a donation to the fire service charity.

In total, £2,200 was raised, and the driving force behind the event was crew manager Dan Todd.

He said: “We wanted to spread a little Christmas cheer because of the dismal year many have had.

“Seeing how happy the children were after seeing Santa was enough to make us forget about the pandemic for a day and look forward to the new year.

“I am very proud to be a part of such a wonderful community and privileged to work for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service who help to make these events possible.

“Thank you to my team and their families for all their efforts.”

Portsmouth, Havant and East Hants group manager Andy Weeks added: “The team and local community put in a huge amount of effort to fundraise for a great charity.

“I’m so proud of the fantastic amount of money they were able to raise.”