Father Christmas is to arrive by helicopter for Stockbridge’s late night Christmas shopping next Wednesday.

He and his elf will be landing at about 6pm on the football field, courtesy of the Army Air Corps. He will then travel by pony and trap down High Street, to his grotto at Beccy’s.

The Band of the Army Air Corps will play carols outside St Peter’s Church, and the choir of Stockbridge Primary School will help with the singing! The shops will stay open until 9pm and there will be mulled wine and nibbles.