'It puts smiles on people's faces' - Spectacular Christmas convoy delivers seven crates' worth of presents to Boston Pilgrim Hospital (IN PICTURES)

The convoy is an annual event organised by Shaun Finnemore, 50, of Kirton and Lincolnshire Vanlife, and Diane Ranshaw, 46, of Sutton Bridge and Lincs Low-Life Car Club.

Ahead of the run being held, gifts are donated to be delivered to the children’s ward at Pilgrim Hospital on the day.

This year, there were enough items to fill seven hospital crates.

These were unloaded by four vehicles, while the rest paraded through the hospital grounds (while being mindful of access for others).

Shaun said he and Diane started the event to raise spirits among young hospital patients over Christmas, but also to show the community spirit of car clubs.

In 2022, when the first convoy was held, 20-30 vehicles took part; this year, the figure was between 170 and 180, a mix of cars, vans, lorries and bikes, with the starting point again being Sutton Bridge.

Of the reaction the illuminated convoy receives, Shaun said: “Every year, it puts a smile on people’s faces. When we pull up at the hospital, everybody who can get to the window gets to the window. We can see everybody looking out; the staff come out, if they can, the ambulance staff – it puts a smile on their faces.”

Summing up the event, he said: “It’s the community getting together and helping each other out and putting smiles on people’s faces.”

Thanks were given to everyone who supported this year’s event. Anyone who wants to get involved in next year’s convoy is encouraged to visit the Facebook page.

In relation to this and other charitable efforts, United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity Manager Benn Petts said: “We’re thrilled that there have been so many festive activities supporting our patients and staff this Christmas. Nobody wants to be in hospital over Christmas but thanks to these events they’ve been able to bring some Christmas magic to our patients.”