Santa drives the number 13 to help Down's charity

They say it is unlucky for some. But passengers jumping on the number 13 bus service in December will be treated to the ride of their life as Santa Claus takes to the wheel.

With snow-white beard and dressed in his traditional red suit, Father Christmas is giving his reindeers a rest until the big night by driving a bus instead of his sleigh.

Santa - also known as James Wallace - has been driving the Edinburgh Coach Line service, which aptly travels through Sleigh Drive, to raise money for the Down's Syndrome Children charity.

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He took up the post on December 1, just in time to brave the snowy conditions he is well used to, and will continue to drive the route from Leith to Blackhall until the end of December.

Mr Wallace has taken up the reins from last year's No 13 bus driver, Brendan Davanna, who has decided to take a back seat this time round. He said: "I have a big personality and I'm a bit of a cheeky chappie who loves a laugh, so everyone is loving me driving the bus.

"I've had lots of children getting their picture taken, and I've been keeping them in check too. Just the other day I saw two wee rascals pelting their mum with snowballs so I stuck my head out of the window and told them 'Oi, be good now' and they dropped them straight away.

"One of the kids on the bus said 'Santa, how do you get home?' and I wasn't sure how to answer that one. Another whispered, 'I think the bus driver must be on holiday'. It's the highlight of my day, cheering everyone up.

"A couple of elderly ladies have taken it a bit too far, though. One lady asked me for a kiss. I told her 'Give over', but she'll have the mistletoe hanging off the doors next."

Mr Wallace, 43, is handing out sweeties - and taking Christmas wish lists - in exchange for a bit of change in his collection tub. He chose his charity after daughter Mhairi, now 15 months, was diagnosed with Down's at birth.

He said: "You see people collecting for a lot of charities, but not so often for Down's Syndrome. Obviously it's a charity close to me, and it needs extra funds because we don't know that much about the condition. I was shocked when I found out Mhairi had Down's, but she is the loveliest little girl. My two-year-old, Diann, is very protective. I hope people will give generously if I put a smile on their face."

He added: "Teens crossing the road will stop and take pictures. Although I'm not sure I can help out the people who are asking for a Lamborghini for Christmas."

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