Bury's "police Santa" is returning to town this weekend to bring festive cheer to residents.

On Saturday, December 9, "The Santaceptor" will begin its journey from Cosalea café in Brandlesholme at 2pm after a launch that will be marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony carried out by Bury North MP James Daly.

Santa, dressed in police officer uniform, will be giving out his gifts from his police-themed car in the Bury West area on that day from 2pm before he appears in Bury East on Sunday from the same time.

Bury Hospice will be joining him on his travels to collect donations from those who wish to contribute.

It will tour the borough's six towns and distribute more than 2,500 sweet treats to children, courtesy of generous sponsors. The schedule for further events will be released as the month goes on.

A street list and schedule is available on santaceptor.com.

Read more: Woman carries out 'disgusting' attack on disabled man at Bury Market

The project, launched four years ago, was inspired by the legacy of Sir Robert Peel and seeks to foster positive reactions and breakdown barrier between the community and emergency services.

Greater Manchester Police has been supportive of the project and will be accompanying Santa on visits to St Joseph and St Bede RC Primary School and Guardian Angels RC Primary School after they won first and second place in a public vote for an exclusive visit for Santa to stop to deliver some treats to children in nursery, reception and children in years 1 and 2.

Read more: Summerseat Primary School celebrates latest Ofsted result

Brent-James Pinder, co-founder of The Santaceptor, said: "Since its inception, The Santaceptor has become a beloved staple in the hearts of the Bury community, gaining a fan following that's as merry as it is meaningful.

"Backed by the generous support of 27 local businesses, we're proud to bring a fresh, tech-savvy twist to the traditional touring Santa.

“While many older-style community Santa tours focus primarily on fundraising, we at The Santaceptor understand that the true meaning of Christmas is the gift of giving.

Read more: Bury road closures: 3 for motorists to avoid

“Our aim is to spread joy and goodwill, distributing sweet treats to children at no cost which ensure children in deprivation and those from affluent families are treated equally.

“It's a Yuletide tradition reimagined for the modern era, one where technology enhances the magic and community spirit shines brighter than any Christmas light."