FATHER Christmas needs Worcester’s help to secure some wheels if he is to bring the spirit of good cheer to the city this year.

Each December, the Worcester Lions invite Santa down from the North Pole to bring season’s greetings to one and all.

In previous years, the charity has sorted out transport for the man in red, while his reindeers remain stabled at home building up their stamina for the big night.

However, the Lions have so far been unable to get a vehicle to tow or carry Santa’s sleigh. And with Christmas getting ever closer they have launched an appeal for help from Worcester firms.

“In the past few years we had car dealerships help us out but the few we’ve so far asked have turned us down,” said Lions president June Lloyd-Adams.

“So we’re appealing to the good people of Worcester and particularly companies who could help out.”

For insurance reasons, the Lions are keen to hear from companies rather than individuals.

Business owners and managers would need to provide a driver with either a car with a tow bar or a flat-bed truck with space for the 10ft long sleigh.

Each evening between Sunday, December 6, and Christmas Eve, the Lions need the vehicle to take the sleigh around a different part of the city. Over the last decade, Santa and his little helpers have collected thousands of pounds benefiting charities like St Richard’s Hospice and Acorn’s Children’s Hospice.

“The response is always amazing,” added Mrs Lloyd-Adams. “We get the little ones waiting in the streets for him and, of course, many of them give him their Christmas lists or speak with him.” Local Girl Guides will again be assisting Santa and the Lions volunteers collecting money with all the cash divided up between charities in the New Year.

If you can help call Mrs Lloyd-Adams on 0845 8335926 or e-mail june@lloydadams. freeserve.co.uk.