A HAMPSHIRE Round Table group has successfully broken all its records in raising thousands for charity by visiting towns over the Christmas period.

Taking to the streets of Romsey, Ampfield and Chandler's Ford as well as West Wellow, Romsey Round Table begun their annual fundraising campaign earlier this month.

Over the course of two weeks, Santa travelled round houses in his sleigh with elves and other assistants in helping to raise cash for a variety of local good causes.

Now, the group has announced that this year has been a record-breaking one, by raising £9,000.

That beats last year's figure by £2,000.

The tour ended with nights touring Halterworth and Whitenap, each of which raised £600.

Round Table chairman John Guest said: "I don't think we have ever dreamed of raising more than £7,000 in a year, so to be able to announce that our Christmas fundraising, combined with the proceeds raised at our Beer Festival in October, that we have raised more than £9,000 to give away to local good causes, makes me very proud indeed."

Romsey firefighters also supported some of the routes, performing their famous Mummers plays at various venues across Romsey and Ampfield.

John added: "It has been a fantastic job by everybody involved, and a great team effort as always.

"I would especially like to thank Garry Lee, who yet again set the standard for commitment on both the Sleigh and Mummers plays.

"Combined with the youthful enthusiasm of Robin and Justin Hunt, the future of Round Table looks safe!"

Members of the public can now nominate a good cause they think is worthy of some of the funding that has been raised.

Charities and the community can put forward names for a grant and apply for funding through the Round Table.

By visiting www.rt484.org.uk, the money raised on the streets will be distributed around charities in the New Year.

Nominates close on January 14, with last year's operation offering a range of grants between £250 and £600.

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