JOHN Gardner is an expert on Hornby trains, Meccano sets and Dinky cars, because he is Britain's oldest Father Christmas - apart from the real one, of course.

It has been almost 50 years since the big-hearted retired police officer first slipped into his red suit and white wig and beard.

These days, he knows all there is to know about PlayStations, Power Rangers and Pokemon - all at the grand old age of 82.

John, of Whickham, in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, still visits the same schools and hospitals as he did when he first started is seasonal role.

Only these days he sees the children he delighted then, bringing their own families to experience his magic.

John still wears the same Father Christmas outfit that his wife, Eleanor, made for him in 1953.

He is so convincing, that he has even fooled his daughters, Hazel and Sylvia, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in to thinking he is the real thing.

John said: "Years ago it used to be prams and dolls, blackboards and easels. Now it is electrical and computerised presents.

"But some of the requests haven't altered at all. The younger ones still ask for what the children asked for years ago - I think children will be the same forever.

"I'm going to go on as long as I can. I'm trying to get to my 50th year. I just love to see the children's faces when they see me."

John started out as Santa in 1953 at the Newcastle primary school where his daughters were pupils.

Since then, he has not missed a year and will be back again to visit the 450 youngsters at Goathland Avenue School next week.

Headteacher Sheelagh Tickell said: "It is an honour to have John as Father Christmas.

"We are honoured to have Britain's oldest Santa visit with us every year.