Rudolph flies in at Stalybridge primary school

Children enjoyed an early Christmas surprise at Buckton Vale Primary in Carrbrook, when Father Christmas and his fleet-footed reindeer swooped in to see them.

School staff had worked hard to create a Winter Wonderland for the children, including a grotto, with the costs towards the merry meet-and-greet coming from the Friends of Buckton Vale.

The Friends are a parent and teacher organisation that raises funds for the school.

Children had the chance to see the reindeer from behind a fence and meet their elf handlers. 

Father Christmas also spoke to them about their plans and hopes for the festive season.

Headteacher Deborah Brown said: “The children were absolutely thrilled to meet the reindeer and Santa, after such a tough few months it was just the tonic for us all. A huge thank you to all the staff who worked so hard to get the surprise ready for the children – it really did take some preparing.”