THE popular sight of Father Christmas "on tour" could be lost to some Wyre Forest towns and villages this year.

The tour, organised by Kidderminster and District Lions Club, sees Father Christmas on a trailer, dressed in traditional red and white suit and popping his head out of a cleverly designed chimney. But this Christmas some areas could miss out unless more people offer to help.

"As members get older and have health problems, we are worried that our main fundraiser, the Christmas float, will not be able to be manned as in the past," said a club spokesman.

"This means that the people of Wyre Forest may not be able to see the Lions club bring Father Christmas to all the venues that it has done in the past."

He added the club depended on money raised from the float to help people in need during the year ahead.

The lack of helpers had already forced the club to pull out of plans to man a stall at Stourport Carnival.

But stalls were held at Bewdley and Kidderminster carnivals earlier in the summer, as well as Broadwaters Fayre and Stourport Flower Show. Together the events raised £278.

Anyone who can help - either by joining the club or helping out on a one-off basis - is urged to telephone 01299 825230 or e-mail ron@arandel.free

serve.co.uk.