A SWARM of Santas took a stroll around Canvey to raise money for charity and bring a bit of festive spirit to the island.

About 100 people took part in the walk, which stopped traffic as it made its way from the Labworth Cafe, on the seafront, through the town centre.

The walkers, many of whom were dressed up as Father Christmas, paused briefly for a carol service led by the Rev David Tudor outside the library, in the High Street, before heading on to the Island Boys and Girls Football Club clubhouse, in Smallgains recreation ground, for a buffet.

David Bartley, club chairman, organised the walk to bring the community together and continue the club’s fundraising for Little Havens children’s hospice in Thundersley.

He said: “From the bottom of our hearts I thank all the charities for coming along and making it a very enjoyable day.

“It has been a lot of fun and there was a really good turnout . Also, the community police officers have been brilliant.”

Other Canvey charites, including Business Opportunities for the Physically Handicapped and Sports Club for the Disabled, also joined the walk to raise money for their own causes.

John Anderson, chairman of Canvey Town Council, was one of the dozens of walkers who put on a Santa suit.

He said: “Island Boys and Girls are such a credit to the community. It has been a smashing day.”

Canvey Rotary Club members pulled a sleigh along the walk with some people dressed in unusual costumes.

Girls section secretary Paul Blackwell, 42, of Eldertree Road, Canvey, completed the walk dressed in a pink T-shirt and his daughter’s pink tutu. He said: “I got told I was wearing this! The walk was a lot of fun.”

There were plenty of youngsters on the parade as all four of the football club’s girls teams cancelled matches to take part.

Shannon O’Connell, 12, of Labworth Road, Canvey, said: “It was good. I liked the carol singing and the free food at the end!”