SANTA proved to be a big hit with children on Saturday (Nov 30) when he paid a visit to the Altrincham Forward office on Shaws Road.

The office was transformed into a fabulous festive grotto and youngsters were treated to chocolate coins while they waited to meet the man himself.

Shoppers were extremely generous in donating to both the Rotary Club of Altrincham who are supporting the Mayor of Trafford’s Charity Appeal, and to the Salvation Army Toy Appeal.

Paul Armstrong, Altrincham town centre manager, said: “We had a great turnout on Saturday and I would like to thank the public for their generosity.

“The toy donations will go some way in ensuring that those who are less fortunate have a special Christmas.

“The grotto looked fantastic and Santa was extremely popular.”

David Williams, president of the Rotary Club of Altrincham, said: “We collected a whopping £1,000 over the weekend in the Altrincham Forward Office and at Sainsbury’s.

“The Rotary Club is going to match the amount we collected so we are delighted to be able to donate £2,000 to the Mayor of Trafford’s Charity Appeal. This will purchase defibrillators which will then be installed in Altrincham. A big thank you to everyone who contributed to this very worthy cause.”

For more information on the Altrincham Christmas Programme, visit.altyxmas.co.uk.