JOBURG'S SANTA RIDES AGAIN

Since 1976, Buks Delport (aka Father Christmas), has been driving around Johannesburg's poorer suburbs in his red 1958 Ford bakkie decorated as a sleigh with reindeer, dishing out sweets and toys to children. He hasn't missed a Christmas in 32 years. The 67 year old Buks lives at Vaal Marina, on the Vaal River. He owns Buks Delport motor scrapyard in Ophirton, Johannesburg. His fiancée, Marietjie Steenkamp, helps out with the special deliveries. His late wife, Mara, used to knit dolls and toys throughout the year. Now Buks buys the sweets and toys himself, bar a few donations. He sometimes receives invitations to act as Father Christmas at Christmas parties, and the money he receives for this, he donates to children's homes.