A much-loved Meirionnydd fundraising event will work differently this year, but organisers are determined to make it as memorable as ever.

In previous years, thanks to RAOB Dyffryn Lodge, Santa has been able to ride through towns and villages and welcome children into his sleigh.

The tour raises money for good causes and this year the group will raise money for the Wales Air Ambulance.

Because of the coronavirus, Santa can’t stop, as in previous years.

But without those stops, he will be able to travel further than any previous RAOB Ardudwy Santa sleigh tour.

Gareth John Williams, secretary of the lodge, said: “We would stop off at homes and give out sweets to the children. We can’t do that this year because of coronavirus. That’s why we decided to travel further, even if we can’t stop in any of the towns or villages.

“The reaction so far has been fantastic. The children are amazed, and we even have older people coming out to wave.

“Everyone needs a lift. Little children don’t understand why they can’t go out and play with their friends."

Santa will be covering a greater distance this year, and the route will be shared on Google Maps via the RAOB Ardudwy Facebook page so his progress can be tracked.

Santa has already stopped at Blaenau Ffestiniog, Manod, Llan Ffestiniog, Trawsfynydd, Gellilydan, Maentwrog, Tremadog, Porthmadog, Penrhyndeudraeth, Llandecwyn, Talsarnau and Ynys.

From this Monday, 14 December, through to Thursday, 17 December, Santa will visit Dolgellau, Llanelltyd, Bontddu, Dyffryn, Tal y bont, Llanaber and Barmouth Harlech, Llanfair and Llanbedr

Throughout the tour, money has been raised for the Welsh Air Ambulance. So far, £723 had been raised.

For more information on where and when Santa is stopping, visit the RAOB Ardudwy 10376 Facebook page.