ENFIELD got a little taste of Lapland last weekend as a real reindeer and Santa Claus did their bit for charity.

Volunteers from the Edmonton Rotary Club raised around four hundred pounds and some Christmas cheer at a collection last Saturday and Sunday.

A reindeer named Dobby was the guest of honour at the fundraising drive held at the IKEA store on Meridian Way.

Children got the chance to pose in a photo with him and Santa Claus, with the pictures processed and sold in aid of Noahs Ark Children's Hospice and other local causes.

For the fourth year running, volunteers also encouraged shoppers to show some goodwill by donating their change.

Dennis Perkins, the Rotary Club secretary said the event had been very enjoyable and that Dobby drew in crowds of people.

"The kids loved it," he said.

"A live reindeer is a bit unusual so it attracted a great deal of interest.

"At one time there were so many people congregated around that we were blocking the exits".

And did Santa's helper have a red nose? "No," said Dennis. "But it was cold so I did".