Santa and his reindeer arrived at Brundall a few days early for Christmas.

Brundall Pet and Hardware store on Links Avenue was the venue for the charity event, The Gift of Christmas, where the true meaning of the festival was exemplified, with everyone giving to everyone else.

Father Christmas, provided by Acle and Brundall Lions, gave gifts to the children which had been donated by the village's parish councillors.

The event, which included face-painting, was free, and for store owner Andrew Bevan, that is what Christmas is all about.

'The real meaning of Christmas is a free gift, the gift of the birth of Jesus,' he said. 'The event is free of charge; our gift to the community, then they give donations on to charity.

Donations were encouraged for the charity The Vidiyal Trust, which provides support to the street children of India.

Mr Bevan said: 'Last year donations amounted to an amazing �570, which will ensure the wellbeing of two people for three years.

'These poor, often orphaned street kids get food, shelter, accommodation and education from the charity; once they get the education they get a job at the charity. It is a fabulous cause.'