SANTA had a preliminary visit to an air museum yesterday to help a cheque to wing its way to the BBC Children In Need Appeal.

He helped present a cheque for £507 to the huge charity at the Yorkshire Air Museum, Elvington, York.

It was raised through a sponsored "spooky sleep-over" by an enthusiastic group of staff and volunteers.

The group survived a cold, yet quiet night in the reputedly haunted control tower of the Second World War Bomber Command Station, in November.

Santa will be returning as usual to the museum over the festive season, this time in spectacular fashion aboard his personal airliner.

Children will be able to see the jolly man arrive on the airfield on the mighty Pathfinder Airport Fire Tender this Saturday and Sunday, and next weekend, December 21 and 22.

An indoor bouncy castle and festive fair will complete a seasonal and fun day out for the whole family. Tickets cost £4 and include a Christmas gift. Booking is essential and there are limited tickets available. For further information, call (01904) 608719.