Over 170 children braved the cold, but dry, conditions on Saturday (17th December) to see Santa in the Bay – all thanks to Freshwater Independent Lifeboat.
While the children enjoyed free gifts from Santa and gentle love from Leira, the snow pony, the adults enjoyed mince pies and festive drinks from Isle of Wight Bars. Wightwood Pizza provided lunchtime meals too.
It was a record-breaking year for the lifeboat team, welcoming more children to Freshwater’s annual event than ever before.
Rod Adams, Principle Fundraiser, has said:
“Saturday was our most successful grotto day ever with Santa chatting to 173 children in 4 hours and record donations received. The looks on the children’s faces really made it all worthwhile.
“This really was one of the nicest ways to say thank you to the community for their continued support.”
Thanks has been given to the event’s sponsors, who donated gifts for the treasure chests – valued at over £400.
