WITH not long to go before the busiest night of his year Santa is already making seasonal preparations.

But this weekend he is leaving the snow and reindeer of Lapland behind to pay Paulton's Park a visit.

The theme park near Romsey has created an ambitious Christmas Wonderland' in his honour and is inviting members of the public to come and meet him.

Now in its eighth year, Santa's Christmas Wonderland attracts families from all over the south.

Visitors can walk through a sparkling tunnel - complete with fake snow and more than 100 animated characters - and admire festive scenes with enchanting characters that sing and move.

Children meet Santa - pictured here on Paulton's new Trekking Tractors Ride - and receive a present in his toy factory.

Meanwhile, adults can sip hot fruit punch and enjoy a mince pie at Paulton's Christmas themed Village Life Museum.

There's even a chance to see the elves' workshop, where Santa's helpers can be observed making the last minute toys for Christmas.