Brighton’s Santa Bus Gears Up for Festive Run
Christmas may still feel distant, but Brighton & Hove Buses have been prepping for months to bring back the UK’s largest Santa Bus operation. This much-loved festive fixture is set to hit the streets again, spreading holiday cheer and raising crucial funds for local charities.
£417,000 Raised So Far for Local Charities
Since kicking off, the Santa Bus has raised a whopping £417,000 to support numerous community causes. For 2024, it will travel 20 different routes over 20 nights, starting Monday, November 25th, and running until Monday, December 23rd.
This year’s fundraising efforts will help 12 local charities, including:
- Martlets
- Chestnut Tree House
- Brighton & Hove Museums
- Rockinghorse Children’s Charity
- Amaze
- Clock Tower Sanctuary
- Fareshare Sussex & Surrey
- Together Co
- Possability People
- East Sussex WRAS Wildlife Rescue
- MindOut
- Brighton Women’s Centre
Festive Launch at Royal Pavilion
The charity line-up was unveiled at a special event inside Brighton’s iconic Royal Pavilion. Santa was joined by Deputy Lieutenant of East Sussex, Juliet Olsworth, and Brighton & Hove Mayor, Cllr Mohammed Asaduzzaman, to celebrate the announcement.
Ed Wills, Managing Director of Brighton & Hove Buses, said:
“The Santa Bus is an essential part of our festive season here in Brighton & Hove. It provides families across the city a unique chance to see Santa, especially where visiting town isn’t easy. The funds raised for our local charities are incredible, all thanks to dedicated volunteers giving their time.”
Santa’s Back and Ready to Roll
Santa himself chimed in with festive cheer:
“Ho Ho Ho! It’s a joy to be part of this amazing tradition and to help raise money for such deserving causes. Huge thanks to everyone at Brighton & Hove Buses and, of course, to Rudolf for being a reliable travel companion!”
With a shiny new bus and more surprises on the horizon, Brighton’s Santa Bus is set to spread Christmas magic once again. Keep an eye out in your neighbourhood and join this heartwarming holiday tradition!