Christmas Duty Calls ... Again

So, after a year of slumber, I was again on duty in December 2025. It had been a busy year preparing for this annual event but, as always, I and the reindeer were up and ready for the Christmas deliveries.  Part of those preparations have involved some “route reviews” and dropping off to meet some of the children (and adults too!) hoping to receive their chosen top of the list items.  And like last year, there were a number of personal appearances. Well, as the cost of reindeer fuel rises, an occasional sideline helps.

We have visited three venues in November/early December, with three more later in December.

First off was a village Christmas Fayre in Roxwell, a small parish to the west of Chelmsford.  The hall was full of the craft stalls of local folk with their small businesses selling unique, individual gifts and decorations.

There were tombolas and side stalls for your enjoyment, a Santa Horse (well that was interesting!)  and plenty to amuse and entertain the youngsters.

Santa was well looked after; the reindeer behaved and I found them where I left them at the start when I was finished.  I met almost 70 young people plus parents, grandparents and friends. I don’t know about reindeer, but I was “ho(a)rse” by the end so welcomed the ride back home.

A Special Grotto

Next came a visit to Buttsbury Infant School in Billericay where I was made so welcome by all.  They had built me fantastic Grotto and there were facilities for the children to have their photos taken looking through holes in an “Elves” wall, and a place in the Hall where they could have souvenir photos taken.  There was even a blow-up version of Santa (above - do I really look like that?).  I always enjoy the look on the children’s faces when their parents bring them in and they first see “Santa”.

I almost missed this event because I was going to the Junior School site but realised my error just in time to get to the right location … and I was even early.  Buttsbury is the home of one of the Rotary Club of Billericay’s RotaKids Clubs, and also a Corporate Member of that club, so I was delighted to go there.  The weather wasn’t good – it was that liquid snow stuff; you know? Rain!!! Pretty damp in a sleigh I can tell you. But 60 children seemed very pleased I dropped by.

Third stop of the season was a Christmas Fayre at an equestrian (horses to you) centre in the hamlet of Radley Green, west of Chelmsford.  I have to say, the horses stayed out of the way; maybe my reindeer put them off?

Phase II

Next came a repeat visit to Highwood Primary School.  They were so excited and took really good care of me and my reindeer. We had a most enjoyable time. 

My penultimate visit in 2025 was to the Chequers, a newly re opened pub in the village of Roxwell.  I did so enjoy that visit (Hic!).  My grotto at this venue was extraordinary!  So much work in preparation of my visit for which I am very grateful. The children and their mums & dads and others were so good and pleased to be there. It was a truly wonderful afternoon. 

Sleigh Ride Finale

And then our last event of the year before my real work travelling around the world on Christmas Eve!  A ride around the village of Roxwell on my sleigh. Oh my goodness did everyone enjoy this. 

The weather was kind and there were huge numbers of people that came out to see me and my elves. Thanks to all of you. 

And so we move on for a new year and all the work that my elves and I must do in preparation for Christmas 2026. Goodbye to you all and I wish you a very happy and healthy new year.  You never know, I might come and see you all again in December 2026.
By Santa