THE children of Liden Primary School and their neighbouring community knew they were in for a festive treat when they heard sound of reindeer hooves in the school hall.

Father Christmas and his reindeer made a morning visit to the school for a very special breakfast ahead of their mammoth night of deliveries later this month.

The school hosted its popular annual breakfast with Santa event on Saturday and as an extra special treat he brought his reindeer with him this year – which teachers revealed had gone down a treat with the children and parents joining them for the slap-up breakfast.

School head teacher Vikki Marsh-Ballard said the children had had a fantastic time.

“We had a really good turn-out from people in our community as well as children who attend our school – it’s quite a nice community event in that it brings families together,” she said.

“It is one of the best ways of getting parents – both mums and dads – to spend time together with their children.

“Having the reindeer here – who were all very well behaved – was fantastic – it was something really different rather than just having Santa in his grotto.”

She also praised the efforts of catering manager Kevin Eastment who had co-0ordinated the full English breakfasts for the event.

School business manager Donna Royal also said the reindeer had been a real hit among the guests. She added: “There were about 150 children here – every year it gets bigger and bigger. It really got everyone into the festive spirit. We decked out all of the tables with decorations and sprinkles, and we had The Snowman playing on the big screen – the parents loved it too.”