A PRO Santa who went to full-time Father Christmas school has revealed his weirdest festive request saw him hoisted 170ft in the air.
Santa Doug, from Brighton, has lifted the lid on some of his favourite memories as Kris Kringle for the past 12 years.
Santa Doug has been Santa for 12 yearsJam Press/Ministry Of Fun
He joined the Ministry of Fun’s Sana School to inspire joyJam Press/Ministry Of Fun
Doug first decided to become a Santa after a fellow performer suggested he might be a good fit.
He then joined the Ministry of Fun’s Santa School – which is the longest-running training school for professional Father Christmases in the UK.
The 58-year-old has since taken on dozens of jobs spreading the festive joy around the country.
Doug said: “Introducing a child to the joy of Christmas is a rare and special thing. Who wouldn’t want to return to do it again and again?
“It’s the joy of other people – the fact that all ages light up when they see you.”
His role includes giving away gifts, reading children’s letters and lists of wishes.
However, he also needs to be ready for surprises as he can also go out for adventures.
He said: “The giving and getting of gifts is a major part of the appeal, of course. It’s what I’m here for.
“Santa’s costume is put together in a particular order, you have to be ready for surprises.”
Doug explained how he once had to hoisted 170ft in the air alongside his colleagues at the O2 in London.
He added: “[My highlights include] being on top of the O2 building with a bunch of my fellow Santas.”
But he has other good memories he holds on to.
“Seeing a deaf brother and sister sign their excitement to one and other (and me) in BSL.
“Having 50,000 children call out ‘Santa’ along Regent Street, working with Great Ormond Street Hospital and Hamleys,” he said
The veteran Santa has also shared valuable advise for aspiring performers – including when you’ll be needed to spread Christmas cheer.
Doug explained: “Most of all, you have to be adaptable – all children are individuals.
“An overly cheery Santa may frighten a shy child, while a quiet Claus may bore an energetic one.
“Remember that you’re just helping out the big man while he prepares for his sleigh ride.
“Don’t expect much work after the 24 December.
“That childlike part filled with wonder is the spark of Santa you share with others.”
It comes as a lesser-known festive attraction in the UK that has its very own Elf Academy, sleigh rides, and a woodland village where guests can meet Santa.
Located in Towthrope just outside of York, Piglets Adventure Farm runs seasonal activities throughout the year, but has its own Christmas event in December.
Jam Press/Ministry Of FunHe gives gifts, reads children’s letters and lists wishes[/caption]
Doug first got into being a Santa after a fellow performer said he might be a good fitJam Press/Ministry Of Fun
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