SANTA has been very busy making a few house calls ahead of Christmas Eve.
He has been visiting the good boys and girls of IKEA’s Reading store, dropping in for a spot of breakfast with those on the nice list.
The event, held in the Calcot store’s restaurant, saw children receive an early present from his happy Elves.
And on Saturday he was in store ready to hear those last-minute requests.
Being Santa, it wasn’t all just about giving to those present. He has also been helping with the store’s special giving tree.
Set up in the store’s entrance, it features baubles with a gift idea written on it. Running until Thursday, December 23, visitors can take a bauble and return it with the gift that has been written on it, such as a doll’s house, a gift for a boy aged seven, and toiletries.
Alternatively, people can leave a shoe box filled with presents under the tree.
The presents will be shared between three children’s homes: Summerfield Residential Care, Viking House and Star Breaks, which help children aged five to 18 who have additional needs and disabilities.
Ikea asks that items should be in a new and unused condition, and the store will add some additional gifts.
The closing date ensures Santa has time to load them on his sleigh ready for his special deliveries.