This year's Toy Run covered the same three children's homes as last year so the details are very similar and the pictures tell the story. As ever though the Bexley branch is indebted to Lee and Tracey Sykes for all the liaising they do beforehand, not to mention fund-raising and present wrapping!
Thanks also to everybody who turned out on a less than appealing Sunday morning to lend their support.

One notable feature this year was the weather which was cold and wet. To brighten things up however we had, in addition to Santa and his right-hand elf, two lovely fairy assistants!
(Left to right: Gary Lineham showing a bit of leg with wife Jackie)

We could have done better with the climate but at least it wasn't snowing or icy.
(Left to right: Nah, you're kidding! I'm right at the back. Santa's right at the front.)

As well as specifically-chosen presents for the children, each home received a cheque to put towards something of general benefit.
(Left to right: Tracey Sykes, Tom Burnett, Chris "Dutchy" Holland as Santa, a staff member to receive the cheque, Gary Lineham as Santa's helper, Jackie Lineham in full fairy mode)

Most people had taken the precaution of wrapping up well against the elements...
(Centre: Phil and Peter, taking time off from the Landmark Challenge)

Having bumped into a children's entertainer who was heading into another part of the complex, we persuaded him to part with some of his special balloons for twisting into animals etc. These proved harder to blow up than you might expect!
(Left to right: Lee Sykes, Tom Friar)

These balloon constructions were, as you might expect, produced by expert rather than amateur hands.
(Lee Sykes and - just visible at the back - Ian Pocock)

Santa stops to say hello to one little girl who has by now got used to a dozen or more bikes rolling up outside the front door once every December.
(Left to right: Eilzabeth and... well, Santa of course!)

A couple of hours into the Toy Run and the sparkly tiara is only just starting to slip...
(Left to right: Fairy Julie and fairy Jackie)
After the last stop it was off to the Anchor In Hope on Shooters Hill for a quick spot of refreshment.