CHRISTMAS elves have been hard at work long after the festive season ended to count up more than £23,000 in donations raised by the Santa Bus.

Decorated by volunteers at Brighton and Hove Buses, the bus made its way around the city between November 22 and December 18 last year to collect money for The Argus Appeal and Martlets Hospice.

To celebrate the success of the fundraising effort, volunteers from the bus company, along with representatives from The Argus Appeal, The Martlets, Lloyds Bank and Legal and General attended a meal at Donatello restaurant on February 26.

Victoria Garcia, the bus company’s accessibility and communities manager, said: “Every year the Martlets and the Argus Appeal help people facing immense difficulties in times of need.

“Through the Santa Bus, we’re able to contribute to the great work these charities do. We’re wholly committed to continuing the partnership with the Argus Appeal.”

Volunteers dressed up as elves to join Santa on the brightly decorated bus to visit streets across the city, playing Christmas songs and spreading festive cheer.

The bus visited more than 200 roads and streets over 20 nights, raising a total of £23,610 to date, with more match funding to follow.

Imelda Glackin, CEO of The Martlets Hospice, said: “The Santa Bus is one of those really feel-good events.

“It is a time when people are really in the spirit of Christmas.

“That wouldn’t have happened without Brighton and Hove Buses and you all have been absolutely fantastic.”

Frank Clasen, body shop supervisor at the bus company, organised a team to fit the Santa Bus.

Mr Clasen said: “There are no other buses that have fairy lights on. It is unique. It is amazing to see and hear people’s reactions to the bus.”

Dawn Watkins, who helped co-ordinate Legal and General volunteers for the Santa Bus, said: “Santa would get off the bus and it was amazing to see people come out and enjoy it. It is infectious.”

The Argus Appeal would like to thank Lloyds, Legal and General and the bus company, as well as city residents for their generous donations.