PICTURES: Santa arrives in his sleigh at the Craigmonie hotel in Inverness

Santa Claus is doing the rounds in his sleigh again this year with the help of Inverness Culloden Rotary Club.

He will be meeting youngsters at various locations in the Highland capital and surrounding area.

Last Tuesday evening it was at the Craigmonie hotel in Annfield Road to distribute boxes of sweets to Ukrainian children who are currently based there.

Club spokesman Derek McRae said there were 40 Rotarians, partners and guests – including honorary chief elf Nicola McAlley – helped to bring lots of cheer to Ukrainian residents.

He added: “Santa arrived on his Sleigh with lights flashing and music playing to be excitedly greeted by around 70 Ukrainian children and adults.

“Presents, which were provided by Tesco, were distributed to 30 children and, despite the language barrier, selfies were soon being taken with Santa and the elves.

Despite the cold evening the children and adults crowded around the sleigh for more than half an hour, until Santa finally had to move on to prepare for further visits to other areas including Wester Craigs and Kinmylies this week.

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