Another hard sleigh’s work

Nov 13 2009 by Euan McLelland, Dumfries Standard Friday

A CERTAIN Mr Claus made an early appearance in Dumfries to launch his Santa School at Mabie Park Farm.

He arrived by horse-drawn carriage to wish his helpers for this year’s busy Christmas period all the best!

Five helpers signed up for the classes with Stuart Thompson and Peter Ford to learn everything a good Santa should know – from how to laugh properly, through to maintaining a perfect grotto.

Mr Ford said: “A lot of people think that you just put on a red suit and sit on a chair and that’s it – but there is a lot more to it.

“Every Santa should want to make sure that people coming into your grotto have a very good time and a safe, enjoyable experience.”

Gavin Capstick, a pupil at this year’s school, said: “I’ve never been Santa before, this is my first year, so it’s a promotion from elf!”

“I’ve always enjoyed getting involved with the Christmas spirit, and think by doing this I will certainly cheer-up a few kids’ Christmases and really join in the fun – I’m just a big kid myself.

“Today, there has been a lot of the more fun side of things, giving a more enjoyable experience for the kids and their parents, and then on the more serious note all the health and safety issues and relevant legislation.

“But the whole emphasis really is on how to enjoy ourselves and making sure that everyone else enjoys it.”