LEAVING the reindeer at home, Father Christmas visited Balksbury Infant School in a racing car.

The children stood open-mouthed as the car rolled through the school gates before Father Christmas handed out presents to each of the nine classes.

Pupils were treated to fun and games to give them something to do on a wet afternoon - one class received a wooden train set.

Headteacher Patricia Murley said: "The children absolutely loved it and they were so surprised to see Father Christmas arriving.

"We went out for an extra playtime and heard the noise of the car turning up, it was such a great sight."

She is now thinking of a way to top the event next year.

"Every year we do something different, we once had a helicopter turn up.

"It's always so lovely to see all the children's expressions when they realise what's happening," she said.