A RECORD more than £6,400 was collected by Santa and the Settle Rotary Club's elves in the run up to Christmas.

Collections on the sleigh as it stopped off at supermarkets and made its way through Settle and surrounding villages, exceeded all expectations, said club president John Diggles.

“We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the people in Settle and the surrounding villages. This is by far the largest amount we have ever collected on the sleigh, at the various supermarkets and the grotto at the switch-on of the Settle lights," he said.

"We are very grateful as it will enable us to support many projects this year, and want to thank everyone who donated."

In the past couple of years donations have been made to many organisations including the area's sports clubs, the scouts, Settle Swimming Pool, the Victoria Hall and Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

People going to do charity work abroad, those showing sporting or other talents who have needed financial help in order to achieve higher standards have also benefited from the club’s donations.

“This fantastic generosity will enable us to support many more projects over the coming months. I hope that those individuals or organisations who think the Rotary Club may be able to help them in their aspirations will get in touch with us via our website," said Mr Diggles.