WHITCHURCH Rotary Club's popular 'Santa Tour' has been cut short by one day because of recently introduced lockdown restrictions.

The last night of the 14-day tour on Tuesday, December 22, was due to cross the border into the Welsh villages of Bettisfield, Bronington and Tallarn Green.

But with Wales going into a national lockdown, that leg of the project has been cancelled in line with the Welsh Government’s weekend revision of Christmas restrictions.

Club president Ian Fawcett said he was disappointed not to be able to finish the tour, but was proud of what has been achieved so far.

“Obviously we’re disappointed,” said Ian Fawcett, “But we understand that Santa will use the extra night to pack the sleigh for his mammoth deliveries on Christmas Eve.

"He’s exempt from social distancing because he’ll be moving so fast that night.”

This year the tour has raised more than £4,000 for Rotary’s support of local charities and community causes in the coming year.

“People along our routes have been amazing,” added Ian. “They have complied with our social distancing and health safety measures and responded magnificently with donations to our charity fund.

"And it’s been fantastic to meet the children again.”

The Rotary club had polled Whitchurch on the town’s Facebook page to ask whether they wanted this year’s socially distanced tour to go ahead.

There were more than 100 responses – all overwhelmingly positive.

“The Santa Tour has become a Rotary tradition,” Ian added, “And this latest one has taught us what it means to people and how much it’s appreciated – especially at a time when smiles are needed more than ever.”