THE Christmas lights are going up, festive music is being played and the nights are drawing in.

It can only mean one thing – The Argus Appeal Santa Bus is back.

The kind folk at Brighton and Hove bus company have loaned us one of their vehicles and festive-minded staff helped deck it out in all its Christmassy glory.

Once we have finalised Santa’s route we will be on the road taking present requests from Brighton and Hove’s well-behaved children.

For generations the Santa Bus has brought a smile to the face of many in the city.

It brings some much-needed festive cheer and gets everyone in the spirit for this magical time of year.

But the Santa Bus has a much more important role.

Every year, without fail, it raises thousands and thousands of pounds for charity.

It is perhaps the single most important fundraising method for this newspaper’s charity. It is vital to the charity’s continued success.

But we don’t take its popularity for granted.

We know times are hard and Christmas is a particularly difficult time financially.

But you never let us down.

Each year you dig deep and make a real difference to those in need in our community.

So this December if you hear the music and see the lights, pop outside and see Santa and his helpers.

It doesn’t matter if you don’t have young children.

Get into the spirit of things, raise a smile and give what you can.

Believe us when we tell you your kind donations, no matter how small, make a real difference.