ONE of Santa's most dedicated helpers has received his own present to mark the 30th anniversary of the day he first pulled on a white beard and red coat.

For three decades, Norman Morton, 62, from Nettlesworth, has been helping out as Santa at Houghall College, near Durham City, while the real Father Christmas is busy.

Norman, who for the rest of the year is a caretaker at the college, has proved so popular as Santa that he now puts in appearances at schools and community centres around the area and has been booked for nine appearances this year.

To mark the anniversary, staff at the college organised a surprise party and presented Norman with a china plate with a Christmas theme and a Santa mug, to ensure he can stay in festive spirit all year long.

Sara Gray, marketing officer at the college, said: "He was quite taken aback because he didn't know anything about it.

"He is really good with the kids and they really enjoy a visit to see Santa. It isn't just a five- minute visit, he tells them stories and listens to them when they rhyme off their lists and we thought he deserved a little recognition for all he has done."