FIREFIGHTERS in Fordingbridge were called to a rather unusual rescue at the weekend.

Santa crash-landed onto the roof of the Regal Cinema in Shaftesbury Street on Saturday while he was on his way to Avonway Community Centre.

Firefighters got him safely down for him to meet the children, and adults too, who had had come to see him at the Santa’s grotto.

Pete White, of Fordingbridge Fire Station, said: “The rescue of Santa on Saturday was a great success. Santa was very brave and allowed us to assist him to safety after which he took great delight in meeting the crowds at Avonway.”

He added: “It was great to be able to be part of the run up to Christmas in Fordingbridge and for the fire station to be able to get involved in such a great community spectacle.

“Hopefully, if Santa’s reindeers get a bit lost again next year we may get asked to help out again.”

There is another chance to come along to meet Santa at his grotto in Avonway Community Centre this Saturday and again on Saturday, December 21, starting at 10am.