SANTA kept the rain at bay on Friday as a Christmassy convoy of all ages took to the streets of Bury.

Around 20 people put their best festive feet forward to take part in the town’s first community Santa Walk, in aid of Bury Hospice and Bury FC’s Disability Trust.

Prior to Bury FC’s final home game of the year against Shrewsbury Town, the walkers joined teams from Bury FC Community Trust and Fit For Free Fitness Centre on a two-mile trek from Gigg Lane and through the town centre before arriving at the Bury FC finish line in time to watch the match.

A total of £186.60 was raised through donations and a collection along the route.

Led by Bury Council leader Cllr Mike Connolly, the group set off sporting Father Christmas hats. They enjoyed a quick pit stop at Fit For Free on The Rock, recharging with a refreshing drink before completing the walk. Chris Green, manager of Fit For Free Bury, commented: “What a fantastic evening and it was great to see the town getting into the festive spirit. We were glad we could be there to provide some encouragement at the halfway point. Well done to everybody who got involved.”

Dean Wright, of Bury Community Trust, said: “We really wanted to start the game on a festive high and hope this will be the first of many Santa Walks to come. It would be great to run this every year.”