SANTA, his elf and six reindeer landed in Christchurch to join in the fun at Saturday’s Christmas Festival and switching on of the town’s festive lights.

He travelled through Bargates and the High Street to the Town Hall, where he was met on the balcony of the Mayor’s Parlour by Heart FM presenters Jules and Warren Hayden.

Bournemouth panto stars including Chris Jarvis were also there to greet the crowds.

Afterwards, the rein deer transported Santa to Christchurch Priory’s Christmas Fair where he met children and received their letters. Other activities during the day included storytelling and crafts at the Library.

A traditional Christmas market in the High Street sold a range of food, drink and festive gifts. Among the stalls was one for the Red Ranger Fund, which is raising funds for a five-year-old local boy with inoperable brain cancer.

Shoppers were kept entertained by Christchurch Community Partnership’s Magical Moments show in Saxon Square, featuring acts including groups from Christchurch Junior and Mudeford Infant schools, Stourvale Mummers, Treehouse Theatre and Christchurch Music Centre.

Later, as the Mayor, Cllr Nick Geary, switched on the lights with the help of his special guests, the focal point was a Christmas tree provided by the management at Saxon Square Shopping Centre.

The festival saw the launch of a Christmas treasure hunt with prizes donated by local businesses.

Santa will be back on December 20 to visit the grotto at the shopping centre.