A FUNDRAISER set up by a community organisation to get a new Santa sleigh in time for Christmas has been backed by a local politician.

Labour MSP Paul O’Kane has insisted that “it wouldn’t be Christmas in Neilston” without the annual Santa Run from Neilston Players.

This comes after the group is currently trying to raise money for a new sleigh as their current one is in urgent need of replacement.

Backing the fundraiser, the MSP is encouraging locals to donate what they can to help fund a new sleigh for the yearly event.

In a statement, Paul O’Kane said: “The Santa Run is one of those magical Christmas events that children in Neilston get excited about every year, it’s become such a tradition that it wouldn’t be Christmas in Neilston without it.

“I’ll be contributing with a donation, and I’d urge anyone who can spare it to contribute to it too.

“Reaching the cost target will mean that the magic of Santa and his sleigh will be preserved for the generations of Neilston children to come.”