VOLUNTEERS raised a glass to another successful Christmas for the Santa Bus.

The bus, organised by The Argus Appeal and Brighton and Hove buses, marked its 15th year by visiting more than 200 streets in the city over 20 nights.

Volunteers who helped raise funds during its tour by collecting money door to door gathered at Donatello Italian Restaurant in Brighton Place, Brighton, to celebrate another successful season of fundraising.

Many of these were from Lloyds and Legal and General.

Martin Harris, managing director of Brighton and Hove Buses, and Mayor Dee Simpson gave speeches thanking the volunteers for their hard work.

The Argus Appeal coordinator Elsa Gillio said: “In 2018 the bus took to the streets for 20 evenings sometimes in appalling wet weather.

“It was heartening to see so many people coming out onto the streets and donating money.

“The bus is wonderful and you just can’t miss it. For many it is the start of Christmas.”

She also announced that preparations were already underway for this year’s event.

The bus took three days to decorate with an eye-catching 3,000 lights and a sound system on board.

In 2018, a live tracker system was also added so that people could see where the bus was online.

Mr Harris said: “Brighton and Hove Buses is committed to continuing the Santa Bus as it brings a touch of magic to so many children and families in our city.

“It is also heartening to hear from elderly people, many who live alone and don’t get out much who just love seeing the Santa Bus. They are always waiting with their donation.

“As well as the joy it brings, raising funds for local charities is an important part of the project and I would like to thank every single person who donated and came out in the sometimes appalling weather to support us.”

After growing in popularity each year, the Santa Bus is now the longest running project of its kind in the city.

All money raised is donated to charity groups Martlets Hospice and The Argus Appeal. In 2018, more than £21,000 was collected.