SANTA winged in to be serenaded by schoolchildren before the end of term.

Youngsters at Ashfield Primary in Ross-on-Wye enjoyed meeting Father Christmas, who told them he "had got stuck in the chimney once or twice!"

The school posted film of children singing to Santa on its Facebook page and said: "A big thank you to Santa for finding time to visit us.

"We know it was even harder this year - a lateral flow to complete before setting off as well as checking the reindeer and all the usual organisation to do.

"We hope he has a safe trip on Christmas Eve and has a good rest after all his work. Happy Christmas everyone!

"Santa enjoyed listening to our songs and we hope you do too!"

The school also posted photos of nursery youngsters celebrating the end of term with a super party, playing party games and enjoying a delicious snack before sitting by the Christmas tree to sing their songs.

"We were all really surprised when a special visitor appeared! What a great way to end the day.

"The nursery teachers would like to wish all the children and their families a very happy Christmas and a happy new year!"

Meanwhile, all the children at Brampton Abbotts Primary headed for the panto at Monmouth’s Savoy Theatre last week to see Jack and the Beanstalk.

The kids loved the show - oh, yes they did! - and the school posted: "Thank you to our amazing PTFA for organising the panto trip.

"So lovely to see the school all together and having fun. It was brilliant. Have a wonderful Christmas everyone."

Meanwhile, John Kyrle High School’s music department put on a special virtual Christmas celebration by posting a film of teachers and talented pupils performing carols.

The school posted on its Facebook page: "We were unable to hold our planned carol service this year because of the pandemic. This was a great shame, as it is a lovely occasion and students and staff had been looking forward to it.

"All is not lost, however. Thanks to Mr Davis, Mr Pepler, Miss Godwin, Mr Pritchard, our peripatetic music teachers and talented students, we can share our virtual Christmas celebration.

"Please enjoy, with our best wishes for the holiday season."