In a few days Santa will set off from Lapland in his famous red sleigh. Filled with this year’s must-have toys, he and his reindeer will travel millions of miles across oceans and continents throughout the night on Christmas Eve.
Happily for children all over the world, the famous sleigh is in tip top condition thanks to the generosity of Wallsend firm, Rotational Engineering.
The firm answered a heartfelt plea from North Tyneside Elected Mayor, Norma Redfearn, to restore the rather battered sleigh in time for Christmas.
They gave it a thorough refurbishment complete with new sides, gleaming skis and twinkling lights as well as a fresh coat of bright red paint.
Now the super sleigh is being used by Rotary North Shields to raise thousands of pounds for local charities. President Peter Matthew said: “For years we have been borrowing the sleigh from the 6th Tynemouth Scouts who store it for Santa but sadly it was beginning to look a little worn out.
“We approached Norma Redfearn for assistance and, through the council, she contacted Pat and Neil Davidson owners of Rotational Engineering who kindly offered to carry out the work at their own cost.
“Together with the Scouts we are deeply grateful to the Elected Mayor and Rotational Engineering for their generosity and making the sleigh suitable for use for many years to come.”
On a visit to Santa and the sleigh, Norma Redfearn said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that the sleigh is looking so good. Pat and Neil’s team did a fantastic restoration job and I can’t thank them enough. It is perfect for Santa and for Rotary North Shields who are in Tesco North Shields until Friday (23 December) collecting for local good causes. But the most important thing of all is that it is now in full working order for Santa and his trusty reindeer as he flies millions of miles around the globe delivering presents to children.”