CHILDREN at a hospice in Hampshire were left astounded after Father Christmas stopped by. 

The big man did not need his reindeer for his recent trip to Naomi House & Jacksplace in Sutton Scotney, as he flew in on his 592-shaft horsepower Gazelle helicopter. 

Father Christmas, assisted by pilots and members of The Gazelle Squadron Display Team, landed his helicopter on Telly Tubby Hill at Naomi House before jumping out with a large sack of gifts to meet the families.

Every child was given an early gift and had the chance to meet Father Christmas - and also take a closer look at the ex-military helicopter.

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Claire Potterton, play and activities team leader, said: “It’s a Naomi House tradition that every year Father Christmas and the Gazelle Squadron Display Team fly into the hospices to meet the families and children and give out early presents.

"It’s a date that families, children and staff alike always look forward to. We’d like to say a huge thank you to Father Christmas for taking time out of his very busy schedule to spread some very magical festive cheer at our hospices.”

Naomi House & Jacksplace supports life-limited and life-threatened children, young adults and their families from across the south of England. 

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