All aboard the free Santa Bus!

AFTER its first successful weekend, the Santa Bus operated by North East charity The Chronicle Sunshine Fund and Stagecoach returns to Nelson Street in Newcastle city centre from today until Sunday.

- By SOPHIE REVELL

The Sunshine Fund and Stagecoach Santa Grotto Bus

We've been sharing stories about the charity's vital work all month, and today we want to highlight why an accessible Santa Bus is so important, and talk about why it is so needed.

The cost of a traditional Santa's Grotto in Newcastle ranges from £15 to £20.

This cost is per child and there's sometimes a charge for adults, too. For families with multiple children, they could be spending £100 for one activity.

The North East has some of the highest levels of poverty in the UK, and for many families the cost of festive activities are simply out of their budget.

All visits to the Santa Grotto Bus are completely free, and all children receive a small gift plus the opportunity to get a photo with Santa.

Unlike many standard grottos, the Santa Bus is fully accessible with plenty of space for wheelchairs, walkers, buggies and prams.

Not only is the bus accessible in terms of mobility, but the team welcome and accommodate all needs and ages.

The Sunshine Fund's purpose is to support children living with disabilities, additional needs and terminal illness in the North East.