CHRISTMAS came early to a pre-school when Santa paid children a visit on his sleigh.

Youngsters at Little Lambs, in Mistley, were treated to a visit by Father Christmas, who arrived on the Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley’s train on Monday.

Pre-school owner Debbie Lamb said all the children had been delighted to see jolly old Santa.

“It was wonderful because it was part of one of our family days where we invite all of the parents to come in and we had our Christmas party,” she said.

“Before the party, we had a magic show and then afterwards, the children and parents had a great time meeting Father Christmas.

“They were all so excited and the parents said they all slept really well on that night so the day must have really tired them out.”

The sleigh is still visiting areas in Lawford including Wignall Street, Bromley Road and Lefleys on Monday, Long Road, Colchester Road and Honeycroft on Tuesday, and on Christmas Eve will be at the Co-op in Manningtree.

Money collected from the sleigh’s tour of the area will be donated to charities supported by the Rotary Club.