Santa left his reindeer at home to arrive by train when he visited a Whitchurch garden centre.

Visiting Whitehall Garden Centre, in Norton Lane, Father Christmas met children from the area and opened his grotto for the season.

David Manning, manager of the garden centre, said: "Although reindeer are Santa's usual method of arrival, he needs to rest Rudolph and the others before their busiest night of the year on Christmas Eve.

"We're thrilled that so many people came to make Father Christmas feel welcome and watch him arrive by 'Chuffy the Train'. Originally we had hoped he could fly in by helicopter but bad weather meant he couldn't.

"However, everyone still seemed to have a magical time and enjoyed the day."

Children visiting Father Christmas will hear a Christmas story in a snowy woodland setting complete with animated animals and starry lighting. They will also meet one of Santa's elves, who will present them with a baby Christmas tree and a festive badge before choosing a present from the toy workshop.

Tickets to see Father Christmas are priced £6.49 per child or family tickets for three children are priced £16.99 each. For more information visit www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk.