The Rotary in Worsley’s Santa float parade could be cancelled for the first time in over 40 years due to Covid-19.

The annual Santa float has taken place every year since 1968, but there are doubts to whether it will happen this year due to the coronavirus restrictions.

Normally, Santa and his elves would ride around the streets of Salford, spreading Christmas cheer and collecting donations door-to-door.

However, it is yet to be confirmed whether Santa can return, as the Rotary are skeptical if the event can take place in a Covid-friendly way or not.

However, the local families and community of Salford have stressed their concerns if the Santa parade is cancelled.

Danielle Tudor, a mother from Salford said: “When I was a kid the Santa float used to go round, and it was absolutely fantastic, it was just memories of childhood.

“You knew Christmas had arrived when the Santa float came around, it was just brilliant and it’s just gotten better and better each year.”

Danielle is also concerned that she will not be able to share the tradition with her two-year-old daughter.

“I would be absolutely devastated if it didn’t happen this year, not just for me but for my daughter as well. She’s at that age now where she is starting to realise that it’s Christmas, and I think if it didn’t go ahead I would be absolutely devastated for her.

“It gives me goosebumps when it comes round and everyone’s cheering and waving, it’s just fantastic and it brings the whole community together. No matter of anybody’s age, race or religion.”

Although there are doubts about the Christmas Parade, the Rotary in Worsley has managed to find a solution to collecting donations, as they will not be able to collect door-to-door this year.

Instead, they have set up an online fundraising page and community wall, inviting the local community to donate. The collection has already received donations of £6,000 through local sponsorships.

Tony Clayson, President for the Rotary in Worsley said: ” Traditionally, we have walked the streets with a Santa’s sleigh, and collected money door-to-door, as well as collections at shops and with carol services, none of those can happen this year.

“We have launched a promotional video and a Just Giving page, which will allow the community to donate in a safer way.

“What we are hoping to do is still take Santa on the streets around Salford, purely as a parade for our residents, offering the opportunity for children to wave to him from the windows and gardens.

“so it’s very different this year, but were hoping with the combined digital strategy fundraiser and the on the street socially distanced and safe parade, it will deliver some Christmas cheer to the community, at a time which we need it the most.”

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