Children at primary schools in West Cornwall were treated to some festive cheer from the skies on Monday.

Falmouth Packet: observers Lieutenant Aren Tingle as Santa and Lieutenant Emma Turner as a Christmas elf. observers Lieutenant Aren Tingle as Santa and Lieutenant Emma Turner as a Christmas elf. (Image: Paul A’Barrow)

The Royal Navy visited schools in West Cornwall with the main man himself, Father Christmas, joined by one of his trusty elves. 

Two crew from 820 Naval Air Squadron dropped in on schools in their Merlin Mk2 maritime patrol helicopter out of Royal Navy Air Station Culdrose.

Falmouth Packet: A high-five from Santa A high-five from Santa (Image: Paul A’Barrow)

Pupils from Landewednack Primary School, St Keverne, Coverack, Ludgvan, and Sennen were visited by the festive duo. 

Falmouth Packet: Happy faces, despite the cold weather Happy faces, despite the cold weather (Image: Paul A’Barrow)

Captain Stuart Irwin, the commanding officer of RNAS Culdrose said: “This is the first time we’re done something like this for a few years now and we’re delighted to be able to bring a smile to children at this festive time.

Falmouth Packet: A happy Santa as he flies to his next destination A happy Santa as he flies to his next destination (Image: Paul A’Barrow)

“It’s also our way of saying thank you for all the support we receive from the wonderful community here in West Cornwall.”