A round of Santa-plause for the Corby community who are sleigh-ing it

A team of Corby residents and small business owners have become real life Saint Nicks with the elf-less attitude to giving gifts and spreading Christmas cheer.

When hopes of a doorstep Santa melted away this week, a last-minute set of Santas stepped into his big boots to deliver festive fun and freebies.

The generous ten, some of whom had brought free school lunches to children during half-term, have organised visits across the town to share out selection boxes.

Co-ordinator and chief elf, Lyndsey Longdin, said: "It's all about giving, sharing some happiness, making people smile and being a good town with a great community spirit.

"Everyone is pitching in and giving up their time to make this possible."

Between them the group will keep the Christmas cheer going by organising numerous visits over four dates in December to attend addresses as Santas and elves giving out free selection boxes.

Lyndsey has enlisted her dad Thomas to act as one Father Christmas, a role he has helped with many times at Harpers Brook pub.

She said: "He is more than happy to give his time for the kids. It’s a great cause and everyone is doing their bit, along with other groups who have also come forward doing the same thing.

"Brian Alexander of Big B's Ices and Aaron Hastings of Millz Munchiezz are delivering on the regular rounds dressed as elves.

"When they are out doing deliveries on the ice cream and sweet vans, they say seeing the children smile makes the job worthwhile, so they are very excited about delivering selection boxes."

Others taking part are Lauren Tosh and Kayla Phoenix, founders of Luckyballs raffles and charity page. Kathleen Tolliday of the Philosaurus visits group, DJ Douglas Mcdougall,

Christopher Wright, and Brian Hastings.

The group has planned four dates, December 15, 21, 22 and 23, the fourth date being added after high demand with more than 200 requests.

Donations of selection boxes have been received from including Dotrition, Millz Munchiezz, Big B's Ices, JT Tyres, Iceland, Rhymetime Nursery, Pristine Property, Lisa Redden Homestyle Bakes and members of the public joining in.

Lyndsey added: "This is all free and voluntary to spread some Christmas cheer for the children. It shows good spirit everyone doing their bit as part of Corby town. The more people doing good deeds, the better."

To contact Santa Saves Christmas click here.