Johannesburg  - Santa Claus has arrived to open the Christmas season in Johannesburg, but on a Harley Davidson motorcycle rather than in a reindeer-driven sleigh.

An estimated 38,000 people on more than 23,000 motorcycles took part in South Africa's 26th annual Toy Run from Pretoria to Johannesburg on the first Sunday of Advent.

The roaring convoy was led by a bushy-bearded man in a red Santa Claus suit who wore a black helmet over his abundant curls. To participate in the event, each biker had to bring a Christmas toy which was later handed out to underprivileged children. (Dpa)