SANTA Claus was all clamped out for an hour in Southampton - before the season of goodwill triumphed and he was released.

Wheelclampers immobilised a car belonging to Father Christmas, alias pensioner Stan Fitzgerald, who was handing out lollipops to children braving a chilly and damp Bedford Place.

The former ambulance driver had been carrying out his voluntary festive work on behalf of local traders when his "sleigh" - a silver Volkswagen Polo - fell foul of parking watchdogs.

He has left his car at the rear of the shops every Christmas for the past five years to spread Yuletide cheer and had no problems - until Saturday.

Stan, 65, said: "It's the best job I've ever had. I left a note saying what I was doing. A lady in a charity shop told them the same and they ignored her.

"I just couldn't believe it. I was absolutely shocked. If I was illegally parked, I could understand it but as far as I know, I had permission to park there.''

After furious shopkeepers contacted the clamping company, there was an immediate change of heart and he was released free of charge within minutes.

Stan, of Ellis Road, Thornhill, said he would have faced a £85 bill to be unclamped. "I just don't carry that sort of money."

Elaine Maiden, owner of Elaine's fashion shop, was outraged at how Stan had been treated. "It was an absolutely dreadful thing to do. As Father Christmas, he gives up his time for charity. I contacted the company and explained what had happened.

"They were very reasonable and said that in the circumstances they would release him without charge. I'm glad they have.''

Clive Deacon, managing director of Southampton-based Security International group said there were warning signs in the areas about the danger of being clamped.

"He was told that by a couple of traders but perhaps he misunderstood the situation. In true Christmas spirit and in the best interests of everyone, we have taken the wheel clamp off without charge."