SHOPPERS in Stourport were welcomed with the sight of Santa and his real reindeer helpers as they visited their local Tesco store.

Santa, his elf helper and the three reindeer joined Tesco staff at the store on Severn Road, for a day filled with festive fun.

Young shoppers queued to meet Father Christmas in his grotto to pass on wish lists before having photos taken with him and his famous reindeer friends.

Chris Collins, store manager, said: “Welcoming Santa and his reindeer to our store has been absolutely brilliant.

“Children were incredibly excited to meet him and the reindeer were a real crowd pleaser with both adults and children.”

Boys and girls also received a gift from Father Christmas as they enjoyed an early start to the festive season.

Mr Collins added: “This event has been a perfect way for us to welcome families and children to the store and start the countdown to Christmas.

“It’s not every day children are able to see real reindeer, especially in a Tesco store. We hope that they have enjoyed the events as much as we have.”

The Stourport store has extended its opening hours and is now open from Monday to Saturday 7am to 10pm and from 10am to 4pm on Sunday.