SANTAS of all shapes, sizes and ages swapped their sleighs for bikes to take part in a fundraising ride.

About 150 people donned red hats and suits and white beards before cycling from Shoreham to Worthing and back again.

The event was organised by Rod and Maria Lambert, who own the Giant Bike Store in Little High Street, Shoreham.

The cycling Santas were waved off by Adur District Council chairman Carson Albury and greeted at Worthing Pier by town crier Bob Smytherman and deputy mayor Sean McDonald.

Organisers are hoping to raise £3,000 from the event, which will go to Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice near Arundel.

Hospice community fundraiser Caroline Roberts-Quigley, who joined in with the ride, said: "We are so grateful for the support of the Giant Bike Store in this fun way.

“We rely on individuals and businesses in Sussex to raise funds for us to continue providing our essential care to local children with life shortening conditions and support for their families."