Calne Lions’ Santa Sleigh has been travelling through the streets of Calne again this December, bringing music and festive cheer to the town and surrounding villages, but last night - one quiet moment stood out.
Lions volunteers were at North End when they were approached by a woman who asked if her dog could meet Santa. She explained that she had brought Apollo to see Santa every year since he was a puppy.
Apollo, now aged 16-and-a-half, is very poorly and has recently had one of his eyes removed. His owner said this would be his last visit to Santa, as he is unlikely to be here next Christmas.
When she struggled to lift Apollo so Santa could stroke him, Santa instead came down to Apollo’s level.
Leigh Randell, from the Men Walking and Talking group, who witnessed the moment, said Santa spent several minutes gently stroking Apollo and speaking quietly with his owner.
“It was such a sad moment, but heart-warming at the same time,” he said. “Santa sat with them for a good five minutes, talking softly and stroking Apollo.”
Mr Randell described it as an “ARK moment” - an Act of Random Kindness. He added: “It showed that the spirit of Santa and Christmas is still strong.”
Want to know what’s on in Calne? Visit our local events page for listings and to find out how to add your own events for free. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news. Have you got a story for us? Email editor@calnenews.com.
