Every winter, the festive spirit lights up parts of East Sussex as Eastbourne Fire Station – Santa Sleigh Tracker returns — and this year is no exception. The service invites community members to join in, wave at Santa, and help raise funds for The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides lifelong support for firefighters, control staff, support staff and their families. Ki
🎅 What’s the Santa Sleigh Tracker about
From 8th to 23rd December, Santa — accompanied by ESFRS firefighters — will tour Eastbourne in a fire-service sleigh.
Each evening, Santa leaves the fire station around 18:15 and returns around 20:00 (weather and emergency calls permitting).
If Santa doesn’t reach your area, there’s a chance to meet him at the station itself on Sunday 21st December, from 16:00 to 18:00.
Children (and even “well-behaved adults”) are invited to wave, say hello — and expect a little sweet treat! Even if you don’t donate, you’re encouraged to come out and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
🎁 Why it matters — Supporting firefighters & spreading cheer
The Sleigh Tracker is more than just a community parade. The funds and donations collected support The Fire Fighters Charity, providing:
Physical rehabilitation,
Mental health & wellbeing support,
Lifelong care for firefighters, staff and their families across the UK.
By welcoming Santa and the crew — even with loose change or a card payment — communities help contribute to this important support network.
Plus, it’s a chance to build community spirit, give children a festive moment to remember, and show appreciation for the people who risk so much to keep us safe.
📆 Where and when to see Santa
Here’s a rough guide to the planned route (subject to change due to weather or call-outs):
Date Area / Estate / Route
8th Old Town (Longland Road area)
9th Shinewater
10th Croxden Way / Meadowburne estate
11th Hampden Park (Hydeneye area)
12th Latimer Road
13th Roselands (Bridgemere Road area)
14th Westham / Pevensey / Pevensey Bay (Beachlands area)
15th Kingsmere / Sovereign Harbour
16th Stone Cross (Towers Road, Honeysett Gardens, Mill Valley area)
17th Sovereign Harbour / Langney Point
18th Roselands (Ringwood Road area)
19th Old Town (Milton Road, Cherry Garden Road area)
20th Town centre (South Street area)
21st Santa at fire station 16:00–18:00
22nd Seafront Hotels
23rd Sovereign Harbour
Keep an eye (or ear!) out for sirens and festive music — that’s how you’ll know Santa’s nearby.
❤️l How you can take part
Spot Santa and his sleigh, wave and say hello — it brings joy to families and helps build community spirit.
Donate whatever you can (coins or card), knowing every penny helps support firefighters and their families.
Share the information — help neighbours or friends who might enjoy a festive outing know about the Sleigh Tracker.
Final thoughts
The Sleigh Tracker by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is a lovely example of community, festive cheer, and supporting a meaningful cause all at once. Whether you see Santa drive by your street or catch him outside the fire station, it’s a chance to come together, support the people who protect us, and add a bit of magic to the season.
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