THE SANTA Bus set off for the first time last night to spread festive cheer and raise money for charity.

The Argus Appeal and The Martlets Hospice's fundraising vehicle's journey takes place over 16 days and last night visited people around Hove Park and Preston Park.

It will continue on Monday between 5pm and 7.30pm when it will visit Hangleton.

Elves will take on doors for donations as the bus drives through West Way, Hangleton Way, Northease Drive, Sherbourne Road, Poplar Avenue, Hardwick Road, Poynings Drive, Burwash Road, High Park Avenue, Lark Hill, Poplar Avenue, Ashlings Way, and Clarke Avenue.

The joint project has been made possible by the sponsorship of Legal & General and help from the technical team at Theatre Royal Brighton and the loan of the vehicle by Brighton and Hove Bus Company.

Tonights ongoing route is – Goldstone/Surrenden

Goldstone Crescent

Queen Victoria Avenue

Woodland Avenue

King George V1 Drive

Sandringham Drive

Varndean Gardens

Surrenden Road

Preston Drove