Stagecoach East Midlands will be spreading festive cheer in Mansfield with the launch of its Santa Bus.

Decked with a winter wonderland design, featuring colourful decorations and characters, the Christmas bus will be running on the majority of (not all) local bus services on specified dates, from Friday, 29th  November until Monday, 16th December – as well as turning into a Grotto Bus for special visits on Wednesday, 18th December.

The festive vehicle will be making its rounds for a second year after a successful debut last year. Collection buckets will be available for those who want to donate to this year’s charity partner, the King’s Mill Hospital Toy Appeal.

The appeal provides Christmas gifts for youngsters on the children’s ward at King’s Mill Hospital and at John Eastwood Hospice.

On Wednesday, 18th December the bus will be transformed into a Christmas Grotto, offering visitors the chance to meet Santa and enjoy festive treats and gifts on board. It will then be in operation until Monday, 23rd December (with a day off on 21st December) from around 4pm to 8pm each evening. Entry is free, however passengers will be able to donate to the toy appeal charity.

There will be a surprise (to be confirmed) Christmas Eve event too.

Matt Cranwell, managing director of Stagecoach East Midlands, said: “The Christmas Bus is a great way for people in Mansfield to kickstart the festive season and travel in style, whether they’re meeting up with friends and family or heading into town to enjoy some late-night Christmas shopping. Through the national £2 fare scheme, all passengers can still feel festive for less by taking advantage of the single ticket price cap.

“We hope our Christmas services will spread some joy throughout the local community and create memorable experiences for our passengers. We invite everyone to hop on board, say hello to Santa and enjoy some Christmas magic.”

Passengers are encouraged to share their adventures on the bus on social media, using the tag @StagecoachEMid on X, with the hashtag #MansfieldChristmasBus.

For more information about the bus schedule, go to www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/east-midlands/mansfield-christmas-bus