A CHRISTMAS convoy comprising about 100 VWs delivered festive gifts to children suffering from cancer.

People taking part in the New Forest VW Santa Run were waved off by Lord Montagu’s sister, the Hon Mary Montagu-Scott, as they left the National Motor Museum.

Laden with donated gifts the drivers were joined by motorcycle outriders as they headed to the Piam Brown unit at Southampton General Hospital.

Daily Echo:

A motor museum spokeswoman said: “The drivers got in the Christmas spirit by decorating their vehicles and themselves in festive attire."

The prize for the best dressed vehicle went to Sammie McKay and Jessica Fudge from Poole. The best dressed dog was deemed to be a cockapoo called Archie, owned by Graham Dyke of Hedge End, and the best dressed family award went to David, Raimonda, Sophia, and Ophelia Hargreaves-Putt from Lulworth.

Daily Echo:

Rachel Funnell, the Piam Brown unit's charity co-ordinator, said: "What a fantastic morning.

"The sun shone on our seventh Santa run and the decorated vans and cars were astonishing.

"A huge 'thank you' to everyone involved - the gifts we've received will bring a massive smile to so many children under the care of Piam Brown and other wards."

Event organiser Phill Ashby added: "The day started with a lovely reception at the National Motor Museum, then we had a fantastic run through the Forest to the hospital.

"A record-breaking 14 cages of gifts were collected - it gets better every year.

"Beaulieu are incredible. They donated loads of gifts, plus prizes for the best-dressed vehicle, best-dressed family and best-dressed dog."