Santa takes to the Thames in fundraising effort
Father Christmas has taken to the River Thames, travelling on a sleigh mounted on a small motorboat to raise money for a youth cancer charity.
The illuminated craft was seen on Saturday evening passing landmarks including Hampton Court and Kingston Bridge in south-west London.
The sleigh boat was created by couple Sacha Pritchard and Matt King, who have gained a following for their social media accounts documenting their life on an island in the Thames.
"Our lifestyle isn't for everyone. It's pretty bonkers, but while we're young, it makes everyday life such an adventure," Ms Pritchard told the BBC, ahead of Santa's sailing.
"I've had parents messaging me saying how excited their children are to see Santa and the sleigh boat."
The role of Santa was played by Mr King, 29.
The couple stopped along the river to give out gifts and raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust, which they said was a cause close to their hearts.
"Nearly all of us know someone who has been affected by cancer," said Ms Pritchard, 26.
"Raising money for such a meaningful charity really matters to us."
She said building the sleigh was complex, as it needed to be safe, removable and suitable for winter river conditions.
"I can now understand why it's never been done before," she added.
"It had to be lightweight enough to handle the winter current, removable, built to the exact dimensions of our boat, secure at speed, safe, legal, and still have power for the lights.
"It's been a huge undertaking but such a fun one."
Just over £1,000 was raised for the trust by their festive sailing.
The couple live on one of London's small residential islands and rely on a motorboat to travel year-round, as there is no bridge linking them to the mainland.
"Living on the Thames means you learn quickly how important it is to be over prepared," Ms Pritchard said.
"We make sure we have radios, life jackets, first aid kits, extra layers and everything you might need out there."
Simple tasks that most people take for granted, like putting out the bins or carrying home the food shop, require careful planning, particularly when the weather turns.
The couple have amassed a combined following of more than 100,000 people across their social media platforms, becoming part of a growing digital community showcasing alternative ways of living.
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