SANTA Claus has swapped his sleigh for a motorbike to spread festive cheer in Basingstoke this Christmas.
Keith Longman, 55, launched Santa on a Bike in 2022 to spread the Christmas spirit in his hometown after purchasing a large number of bubbles and soft toys in 2020 for a show, which was ultimately cancelled due to Covid-19.
Keith said: “I wanted to do something independent in my hometown, so I thought why not make my bike festive, dress up as Santa and hand out bubbles and teddies to children to bring smiles and cheer.”
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He is also the founder of Hampshire motorcycle group HBB, which runs events including organised rides, as well as fundraising for several charities.
This year Keith is fundraising for Basingstoke-based charity Spotlight UK, which runs events and other free activities for children and young people with a disability or life-limiting condition as well as a range of other services.
He added: “It’s been so well received, and because of that, I am planning to make the event an annual occurrence, where I pick a local charity and hopefully raise some money.”
Keith drives around Basingstoke, stopping at supermarkets on his way, as well as offering visits to nurseries, schools, and families which he charges £5 for. The money goes towards the large toys he buys for private visits, as well as donating £3 to Spotlight UK.
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“I like to make it a bit jokey, when I visit a school, I might showcase a dance that the elves have taught me along to Christmas music, which is played from my bike,” says Keith.
He posts about his adventures as Santa on the Facebook group, Spotted Basingstoke, sharing messages from children and parents.
“I couldn’t believe the response; my inbox is going berserk,” he added.
Keith says he offers Santa on a Bike as an alternative to children who want to speak to Santa but may be unable to visit a grotto.
To book a visit from Santa on a bike, or keep up with his adventures, visit facebook.com/keith.longman.7.
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