Four-by-fours took the place of Santa’s sleigh to ensure Keighley children received Christmas presents.

The off-road vehicles made sure toys donated by local people were delivered to disadvantaged families.

Snow on Christmas Eve had stopped Salvation Army volunteers from reaching more than 150 houses.

A last-minute appeal for help brought volunteers with off-road vehicles from as far away as Bramhope and Burley-in-Wharfedale.

Keighley car dealer Colin Appleyard’s also provided a four-by-four vehicle for the delivery run.

Many of the toys, games and Christmas hampers had been donated by Keighley News readers during the Salvation Army’s annual appeal.

Volunteers spent several days wrapping presents for more than 350 children.

But on Christmas Eve just four people were able to reach the Salvation Army’s town centre base to begin the distribution run.

l Santa braved snow and ice to bring smiles to the faces of Keighley youngsters.

The town’s Lions club once again staged its tour of the district, greeting children and raising money for local charities.

And as in previous years the sleigh was pulled by an illuminated Colin Appleyard Suzuki 4x4, adorned with seasonal graphics donated by Richard Metcalfe, of A-Lurie.co.uk.

Accompanying the sleigh were members of Keighley’s Scout movement, who collected donations.

Stuart Feeney, of Colin Appleyard, said: “We have encountered wind and rain in the 20 years we’ve been sponsoring the event but snow and ice were a novelty.

While it certainly added to the festive spirit it unfortunately limited the number of times we were able to go out. Our apologies if we didn’t make it to your area. We will be back next year.”