A former Bucks councillor is celebrating his ninth year playing Father Christmas.

Former Conservative cabinet member for children’s services Mark Shaw will hang up his boots and beard once more after another successful year playing Santa in Chesham.

The 53-year-old father-of-two is a familiar face around town this time of year, visiting the vulnerable in their homes and collecting for charity.

This year alone he will have attended thirty separate events spreading cheer and good will.

“Just finished all my Father Christmas duties for this year,” he said. “I’ve been Santa at a number of events in Chesham for over nine years.

“This year, I will have done thirty events, including going on the Chesham Rotary Sleigh in The Broadway and around the town to collect for defibrillators, school fayres, an old peoples’ home, visiting sick children in their homes and doing community Christmas parties.

“It is great fun to bring some happiness and joy to both young and old in these challenging times.”

“Well done, Mark,” tweeted Zoe Healy. “I love seeing these posts every year.”