SANTA Claus is coming to town, thanks to Basingstoke 93 Round Table.

After a meeting last week, the group decided it wanted to still share the festive joy this December, even though a few adaptation will have to be made.

Posting to Facebook, it said: "We have had a virtual meeting and we've decided that, as things stand, we'd like to bring Santa to the people of Basingstoke once more, on as many of his regular routes as possible, to bring some much-needed joy but also do some fundraising to support some wonderful local charities and good causes.

"Santa has asked us to change a few things to keep himself, his elves and his fans safe."

The main differences this year are:

  • Santa won't be leaving the sleigh on routes
  • Fans should stay a socially-distanced two metres away from the sleigh
  • Santa would like to see no groups of more than six people (or whatever guidelines
 are in place at the time)
  • The sleigh won't be stopping on the routes nor accepting any cash donations
  • Santa's elves (who will be wearing face masks) won't be knocking on doors nor
 giving out sweets / chocolate

The itinerary, which is subject to change, will see Santa visit: Kempshott on December 14; Hatchwarren on December 15; Clarke Estate on December 16; Kempshott on December 17; Chineham and Old Basing on December 18; and Harrow Way on December 21.

All donations will be distributed to local groups and charities and can be made online at: app.donater.co.uk/?#/donate/basingstokeroundtable