A SPECIAL guest has made a beeline for resident reindeer on a county farm as he rounds up his friends and helpers for the festive season.

Santa is visiting a Kington farm park for the first time in six years – providing a special treat for visitors.

The special guest surprised everyone at Kington Small Breeds Farm and Owl Centre this week as prepares the farm's resident reindeer.

Elderly reindeers Angus, and Holly and Ivy are well looked after at the farm park all year but owner Jay Brittain said: "For some strange reason they always disappear on Christmas Eve but they are always re-appear ready for breakfast on Christmas Day."

Visitors will be able to see Santa and enjoy some of his Santa Banter as part of the centre's normal admission fee, in the run up to the big day, as well as enjoy seeing all of the park's other animals.

The farm's animals include British Owls, and 27 other spectacular species from around the world, four different breeds of goats including the very popular Pygmy goats and their adorable kids, miniature horses, donkeys, alpaca, micro-pigs and the world's smallest breed of sheep, Ouessants.

Mr Brittain added: "We have been amazed at how much support we have had this year. It has been a very busy season when we have been able to open.

"Now that Santa is visiting and staying with us for a while, we expect lots of visitors in the run up to Christmas. But booking a place is essential so that we can make sure Santa can have a nap or two.

"Visitors can come and support all of our animals and then they can visit Santa at the end for no extra cost. They will be taken into the reindeer cabin to meet 'The man in the red suit' at your appointed time.

"Santa will not be handing out gifts at the farm park this year as he is very busy getting everyone's presents ready for Christmas Day."

During England's two lockdowns the team at the farm have worked hard to ensure public safety and the extra measures they have put in place have worked well, with the Government confirming today that children can still visit grottos.

Appointments for Santa are available on December 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18 until Christmas Eve and there are still a few free slots in his diary.

For up-to-date information and to book a place visit the Santa Claus booking line at www.owlcentre.com.