Christmas came early for youngsters at a Norton day nursery when Santa Claus made a fleeting visit to their festive party.

More than 85 children from The Rainbow Day Nursery received gifts as part of the festive treat organised by owners Northumbrian Trust Day Nurseries and nursery staff.

The children, aged from two to four years, each took turns to speak to Santa.

Gillian Brookes, principal at the nursery, said: "For some of the children it was the first time they had actually seen a real Father Christmas so some were a little more apprehensive than others, but older children thoroughly enjoyed it.

"They had been excited for the majority of the day and it was very well appreciated by both the children and parents alike."