SANTA is set to ditch his sleigh and sail into Clacton on a lifeboat next weekend.

Father Christmas will be braving the cold seas to deliver presents to youngsters during the free event at the town’s lifeboat station, in Hastings Avenue.

He will be coming to the town in Clacton RNLI’s new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, the David Porter MPS, which was funded by a local campaign.

Steven Cole, chairman of Clacton RNLI’s fundraising group, said: “Santa has been coming to the town by lifeboat for almost 20 years, but he took a break last year.

“When he arrives he will be giving gifts to children in his grotto at the station, where refreshments will also be available for grown-ups.

“The lifeboat shop will also be open for anyone who wants to buy last minute gifts.
“We are expecting a great atmosphere down there on the day.

“This is our chance to say thank you to the people of Clacton, who support the lifeboat charity throughout the year.”

Santa will be arriving at the lifeboat station at 11am on Sunday, December 16.