Thorney fire station's £3k appeal to upgrade Christmas sleigh

"We'd be extremely grateful for any contribution anyone can make," Mr Gould said

Firefighters are fundraising to keep their popular Christmas sleigh on the road.

The crew at Thorney fire station, near Peterborough, have held a procession through the village for one night each year for local children to enjoy.

But a spokesman said £3,000 was needed to cover upgrades to ensure it makes a return in 2024. More than £800 has been donated online.

"The sleigh is on its last legs," said crew commander Phil Gould.

"Unless we can raise enough money to replace it, this special Christmas tradition won't be able to happen again."

The firefighters hope Sunday's procession will not be their last

The sleigh, which is a converted trailer, was driven around the local streets for this year's procession on Sunday

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service said funds would be donated to the Peterborough Volunteer Fire Brigade charity, which in turn would pay for the sleigh rebuilding.

"We'd be extremely grateful for any contribution anyone can make," added Mr Gould.

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