Reports reach us at Mailspeed Marine that Santa is to take time from his busy schedule this week to practice his boating techniques (his sledge is currently undergoing last minute preparations).

The jolly red fella will be appearing at the National Waterways Museum on a specialist Santa Cruise. Kids will be able to enjoy a canal ride with Santa today and tomorrow.

Oliver Briscoe, marketing manager for the museum, comments:

“Our Santa Cruises have always been really popular and have sold out in previous years – so we’ve put on extra cruises this year in evenings and in the week running up to Christmas.

“There are still some tickets left so please contact the museum to book your tickets.”

If you want to join Santa as he prepares for his hectic schedule on Christmas Eve, visit www.nwm.org.uk or call 0151 355 5017.