THE Lions Club has been bringing the festive spirit to the streets of Calne for more than a fortnight already.

The club's Christmas float, with Santa Claus, reindeer, lights, music and plenty of cheer, has been touring different parts of the town every evening since December 1, and it will continue to spread cheer right up to Christmas Eve.

Lion Martin Ruddle said it was a big commitment for members and supporters, not least Tom Dodson who plays Father Christmas.

But he has no doubt it will be worth it, as last year's efforts, combined with the proceeds from Santa's grotto in Sainsbury's, raised more than £4,000 for local good causes.

"We have lots of music and lights and the float gets a good response from people," Mr Ruddle said.

"People actually look forward to us coming and we go and knock on doors and rattle our tins."

"In the group we have an electrician and a mechanic so between us we get the float up and running smoothly."

The club's children's grotto was set up in Sainsbury's this week, where it will stay until Christmas.

It is hoped the float will also get out to surrounding villages this year, including Lyneham.