SANTA and real reindeer brought early festive fun to the area at the weekend.

Shoppers flocked to Painswick Christmas Fair to pick up gifts and pet items and support Sue Ryder.

Held at Painswick Golf Club on Friday and Saturday, it also gave families the chance to meet Santa and the Randwick Reindeer while snacks and treats were available from the Beacon Bar and Kitchen.

More seasonal joy is planned this week with Painswick Christmas Goodwill Evening on Friday from 5pm to 8pm.

The timetable is as follows: 4.45pm bell-ringing at St Mary’s Church, 5pm performances at St Mary’s, 5.30pm Goodwill parade starts at the church before heading to the Painswick Centre, where there will be food and stalls as well as the chance to meet alpacas.

Santa’s grotto opens at 6pm - bring toys for the Salvation Army or food donations for Stroud Foodbank.