FATHER Christmas dumped the sleigh and reindeers for another mode of transport after being spotted near a takeaway restaurant.

Santa was spotted on top of a motorbike driving along the A38 Worcester Road in Wychbold between Webb's Garden Centre and McDonald's.

Rudolph and the other reindeers were nowhere to be seen though they may be having a rest before the big day delivering gifts before Christmas Day.

Biker Father Christmas was spotted near Droitwich on Wednesday, December 1.

The eyewitness spotted motorbiking Santa heading towards Worcester and said: "It was brilliant - we had literally just been to see Santa and then he came zipping past."

The identity of the biker remains a mystery and it is not known if he is linked to the Santa's on a Bike charity ride taking place later this month.

Later this month, dozens of bikers dressed as Father Christmas will ride to Acorns Children’s Hospice for the ride.

They will deliver presents to children at the hospice in Bath Road, Worcester.

Bikers will gather at Gupshill Manor in Tewkesbury from 11am before setting off at 12.30pm on Saturday, December 11.

The group will ride down the A46, through Evesham and Pershore before meeting at the Timberdine on Bath Road to regroup ahead of the final sector to the hospice, with an expected arrival of 2pm.

Midlands ride organiser Jennifer Long said: “I've been a biker for ten years and I know we like nothing more than all getting together to raise money for good causes throughout the year.”

“Santa’s on a Bike choose to support children’s hospices at this time of year in the hope of raising a smile to children and families at what may be difficult times, especially brought to light around the festive period.

“Even if you're not a biker be sure to come out and wave to the Santa’s as we pass.”