In 2020, the COVID pandemic put paid to those plans and this year, with cases rising across the state, it was touch-and-go whether the brigade members would be able to continue the tradition.

Yet brigade captain David Pond said they were finally given the green light for 2021, and with strict COVID-safe measures in place, they were back doing what they love this afternoon.

And the kids they passed - who each received a special treat - couldn't be happier.

"It's been an annual event in the history of the brigade and last year we had to cancel due to COVID so it was great to see it go ahead this year," he said.

"It's so heartwarming, it's the best feeling seeing the faces of the boys and girls, their parents and everyone we pass, as we spread the Christmas cheer.

"It's our way of giving back at Christmas time."

The Mercury team would like to take this opportunity to wish our readers a very happy, and safe, Christmas.

It's been a year like no other - well, perhaps 2020 came close - but it's been a time where we have seen community members band together again and again to help each other when times were tough.

We thank you for turning to us for your daily news, and we hope we can continue to keep you up-to-date with what's going on in our region, and beyond, in 2022.

The Mercury does not publish a print edition on Christmas Day, but we will continue to bring all the breaking news to you on our website right across the weekend. Our print edition will return on Monday.

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