Santas saddle up for annual Saintfield ride

Taking on a Dowton Abbey theme, guests were greeted on arrival at the launch by the Butler (Seamus Rodgers), the House Maid (Loraine Johnston) and the House Keeper (Vi Patterson). It launch event was attended by sponsors, friends and the media.

This years ride takes place on Saturday December 6 from Saintfield Livestock Mart, by kind permission of Mr Brian and Geoffrey Murphy.

The day begins with everyone arriving at the Mart at 11am for a mulled wine and mince pie reception in the Marquee.

There will be lots of prizes for the best turned out Santas and every child under the age of 12 who takes part in the ride will receive an award. Prizes will be presented during lunch.

At 12noon the ride, which is strictly a hack so should suit all riders, moves out and makes its way to Saintfield Town.

At 1pm Saintfield Main Street will be swarming with Santas led by the ‘Real Santa’ and his celebrity guests in a magnificent Horse Drawn Carriage.

Well wishers coming to see the Ride will be entertained by live Christmas music from the famous Panache and plenty of craic from comedian Terence McKeag.

Santa and his guests will alight from his carriage at the Christmas Tree to meet and greet everyone before making his way back to the Marquee at the Mart to enjoy lunch and more live Christmas music and entertainment.

Entrance to the marquee is free and anyone wishing to have lunch can do so for a donation of £5 and children under 12 are free.

The cost of the ride is £20 for adults and £10 for children, which includes the Mulled Wine Reception and Lunch.

Sponsorship forms can be down loaded from www.saintfieldhorseshow.com/saintfieldchristmascharityride.

For further details contact Joan Cunningham 02897 519030 or 07775860744 email [email protected]