Annual Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride is a big success

The organisers of the ride would like to extend their thanks to Gordon Andrews and Prime Shine Car Wash and Valeting Services for closing for the day to facilitate the ride.

On a beautiful sunny December morning everyone gathered at Andrews Yard at 11am for a mulled wine and mince pie reception.

The festive atmosphere was fantastic with Christmas carols and music playing in the background to help everyone get into the Christmas spirit.

At 12 noon the Santas mounted up to ride into town led by organiser Joan Cunningham and Albert Lowry now 85 years old who has led the ride with Joan for the past 14 years.

The entire route of around four miles or more was lined with well wishers waving and shouting Merry Christmas.
The ‘Real Santa’ in his magnificent carriage joined his tribe of Santas on horseback at the top of the old Grand Jury Road and led the way to Saintfield.

Arriving on the Main Street the Santas were delighted at the crowds that were there to greet them.

Children screamed and shouted with delight and excitement when they saw Father Christmas.

At the Christmas tree he alighted from his carriage and walked up the street calling out and waving to the children while keeping socially distanced of course.

BBC’S Hugo Duncan kept everyone in stitches while Box Car Brian and Gerard Dornan sang some beautiful Christmas songs.
Organiser Joan Cunningham would like to thank all the volunteers and sponsors, the media and any other person who helped in any way to make the day such a fantastic success.

All money raised will go to the Pius Kulama Ugandan Project.

Joan said: “Thank you so very much to everyone who contributed and we wish you all a very Merry Christmas.”