THERE was a frisson of festive excitement at a Dorset school when a special visitor made a 'flying' visit.

Broadmayne First School welcomed Father Christmas and his head elf to the school playing fields.

The helicopter used by the pair from the North Pole was supplied by the  Commando Helicopter Force at RNAS Yeovilton.

Father Christmas greets youngstersFather Christmas greets youngsters (Image: Supplied) Headteacher Kirsty Jordan-Gill said the visit came as a result of the youngsters writing to 'the main man'.

She said: "Santa had got wind that the children had been busy writing their letters to the North Pole and he decided to come and collect them in person before heading back up north.

Father Christmas touches downFather Christmas touches down (Image: Supplied) "Both children and teachers were incredibly happy to meet the main man and see the helicopter arrive.

"Many thanks to the team from Commando Helicopter Force at RNAS Yeovilton for bringing Father Christmas whilst his sleigh is being prepared for Christmas.”