SANTA was joined by Leira the Icelandic snow pony as he held his annual Grotto Day at the Freshwater Independent Lifeboat boathouse on Saturday.

Nearly 100 children popped in to pay him a visit and receive a gift.

The annual grand raffle draw made £1,185 while, although it was a free community event, another £400 was donated on the day.

As well as a visit from Leira and her owner Pauline Hackforth, the crowds were entertained by the Brass Monkeys family band.

Principal fundraiser Rod Adams said: "This was probably our most successful grotto ever, in no small part thanks to the weather.

"But I must also say that it would not have been possible without the fantastic crew and volunteers who give up so much of their time to make this such a perfect day. Thank you all, and Santa of course."

The event was sponsored by Co-op Funeral Services, The Entertainer, Poundland and Medina Food Services.