SANTA Claus may not be able to ride through the streets this Christmas after arsonists almost destroyed his sleigh.

For the past ten years, Middlesbrough Teesside Lions have stored their Santa sledge in a garage in the grounds of the Highfield Hotel, Marton Road, Middlesbrough.

Recently, one of the garages was set on fire by vandals, and the resulting heat and smoke has seriously damaged the sledge.

The Lions say that although the trailer is repairable, the awnings, lights and decorations have been destroyed and the garages are to be demolished.

It all means that the Lions have nowhere to store the trailer or anywhere to work on repairing it in time for Christmas, when it is due to tour Middlesbrough, Redcar and East Cleveland so that youngsters in those areas can have the chance to meet Santa Claus himself.

The club says unless the sledge can be repaired, hundreds of children are going to be left very disappointed this Christmas and the club will be unable to continue with its charity activities.

The Lions are appealing for anyone in the Middlesbrough, Redcar and East Cleveland area who can provide suitable premises to call either Malcolm on (01642) 317009 or Giles on (01642) 476321.