Emergency responders give back at annual Santa Run in Botetourt County

What's the holiday season without Santa Claus? The Read Mountain Fire and Rescue Department has tracked him down to make Christmas brighter for the young and the young at heart.

Christmas is less than two weeks away and to celebrate The Read Mountain Fire and Rescue put on their 18th annual Santa Run Wednesday night. That's where they parade Santa Claus on top of one of their engines, complete with the red sleigh.

The sounds of the holidays filled these brightly lit neighborhoods Wednesday night, as the big man himself took a break from seeing who's naughty or nice for one reason.

"So they can see the true meaning of Christmas, and what it's all about," explained Chief William Sealey of the Read Mountain Fire and Rescue crew. "We just help out the community, and bring Santa Claus to all the kids who aren't able to go to the mall or wherever to see him."


The crew is spreading Christmas cheer all week, heading out to neighborhoods and saying hello to kids and giving away candy.

"Oh it's great.  I come out here every year and the kids love it and everybody loves it. You know it's just fun," Penny Key told us.

These firefighters have stood by, ready to to take on the role of Santa's helper for more than 18 years.

"We like to give back to the community we help out every day," Chief Sealey said.

If you'd like to see pictures from the Santa Run, click here.