SANTA took along a team of helpers when he put in an appearance at the Rockwell Green monthly craft fair.

The group, also known as Crafting Friends in the Pop Up Shop, in Wellington, provides an outlet for local crafters as well as raising money to support the Scotty's Little Soldiers, Teenage Cancer Trust and National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society charities.

The group's Caroline Bartlett said: "We had a visit from Father Christmas attended by two of his helpers in the guise of snowmen and there were plenty of elves in their colourful outfits talking to the children and helping them write their letters to him at the North Pole.

"There was a raffle for a Christmas hamper, which raised £43 for our charities and was won by two of our regular visitors and we all hope that they enjoy all the goodies in there."

She added: "It was a good morning with a wonderful atmosphere, plenty of chatting between customers and stallholders, just the way we like it."

A market cafe was provided by Wellington Majorettes, who provided a range of cakes and refreshments.

Crafting Friends also act as a collection point for ring pulls for the Purple Community Fund and stamps for Young Lives vs Cancer (formally Clic Sargent).

They are also collecting donations for Sacks of Smiles, an initiative run by homeless charity Open Door to donate Christmas gifts to homeless people

Ms Bartlett thanked everyone who has supported Crafting Friends over the past five months. The group will return on February 5.