Santa makes a flying visit

On 2nd and 3rd of December, Santa and his team of elves made a flying visit to Martell’s department store in East Grinstead. Over 100 children came along to his Grotto (just £2 per child) and all went away with a wrapped book and a chocolate decoration for their tree. Great work from Lion Brian Richens and our two non-Lion volunteers.

A surprise visit to RDA stables from Santa

Santa also made several visits to East Park Riding for the Disabled (RDA) at Newchapel to talk to the children after their final riding sessions of the term.

The riding school had been set up with Christmas stockings around the perimeter, containing carrots and apples for the ponies and chocolates, satsumas and other goodies for the children to collect as part of their lesson.

Santa then made his surprise visits, talking to the children and giving each of them a small present. Santa was also pleased to hand out achievement certificates and badges for their riding skills.

East Grinstead Lions has been supporting the local RDA centre for over 20 years both financially and term-time weekly volunteer support.