Children at Charlton Horethorne were stunned and delighted when Santa dropped in by helicopter to deliver presents.

Children and school staff set off on what the children thought was a welly walk only to be surprised in a nearby field when a Merlin helicopter landed, and out popped Santa bringing presents for every child.

He then took off to return to the North Pole to continue his Christmas preparations.

Headteacher Phil Sales said: “A big thank you to the Fleet Air Arm (and Santa!) for making this possible and putting smiles on all the children’s faces. It was very exciting, and a brilliant end to their party day!”