SANTA Claus will abandon his traditional sleigh when he makes an early appearance this month.
Father Christmas will be arriving at Dalton Park shopping mall, near Seaham, on board a steam traction engine.
The idea for the new mode of transport came from children in the area who were asked to paint a picture showing how they would like Santa to arrive this year.
The winning entry was a picture of him travelling on a steam engine and the winning artist will be presented with a prize during Santa's visit on November 12.
On the same day, a Christmas grotto will be opened at Dalton Park.
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