Santa and his helpers bring festive cheer to Halkirk thanks to Milton Mob
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Santa and his helpers brought seasonal joy to more than 100 youngsters in Halkirk this week when they took to the streets of the village in a specially decorated Christmas float.
A group of friends known as the Milton Mob have entered a float at Halkirk's annual gala for more than two decades, and they decided to spread some festive goodwill to raise the spirits after a difficult year for everyone against the backdrop of the pandemic.
They spent almost three hours going round the village on Tuesday night and had a great reaction from onlookers of all ages.
Alastair Budge took on the Santa role and, along with his elves, gave away sweets and bottled drinks thanks to the generosity of Halkirk shops Splurge and T&B Catering.
Along with Alastair, the team of volunteers on the float were Mark Budge, Fiona Budge, Alec Budge and Iain MacKenzie, while Laura Sutherland was responsible for the design and painting.
They were doing the rounds from 6pm until nearly 9pm and the weather was kind to them.
"It was a perfect night for it," Alastair said.
"I didn't think it would be that busy but there must have been about 120 bairns. They were delighted.
"We're getting a lot of good responses on Facebook too.
"There has just been nothing for the kids."
Asked whether all the effort had been worthwhile, Alastair replied: "Oh yes, 100 per cent."
It was the first time the Milton Mob had undertaken a Christmas float project. But, as it was such a success, Alastair reckons they might follow it up with another festive outing in 2022.
He said: "I think we will do it again and we might try something different next year."
The Budge family own Milton Farm at Halkirk.
