SOMERSET families were out in force to welcome Santa when he arrived on an old Massey Ferguson 135 tractor at Rumwell Farm Shop on Sunday (December 8).

Father Christmas, who transported his elves in a link box, is now in residence in his snowy cabin off the A38, between Wellington and Taunton, with slots still available to book to see him.

Anne Mitchell, partner at the farm shop, said: “Father Christmas is resting his reindeer for Christmas Eve so he decided to arrive with us this year on our wonderful, family-owned, restored and loved, vintage Massey Ferguson tractor, which is still used on our farm today and is a great link with our farming heritage.

“Launched at the famous agricultural Smithfield Show in December 1964, the new Massey Ferguson 100 world series, which is in the Red Giant range, featured a selection of tractors. The MF135 was one of the smallest and the MF175 the largest. So, as the series is also celebrating its 60 anniversary this week, we thought it would be touching to use our vintage tractor to assist Father Christmas with his arrival. Two icons together.

“He and his elves were greeted by all the families who’d come to see them. It was so thrilling for all the children waiting for him to arrive. We had Christmas songs playing, so everyone was able to sing-along while they waited.”

Tickets cost £14.50 per child and include an age-appropriate gift. They can be purchased at www.rumwellfarmshop.com/visit-father-christmas-in-his-grotto/.

Booking for children is essential and must be made via our website. There’s a maximum of four children with an appropriate adult/s.

Father Christmas will be in his cosy cabin grotto at Rumwell Farm Shop this Saturday, December 14, 9am-5pm and Sunday, December 15, 9am-4pm.

For information call 01823 461599 or visit www.rumwellfarmshop.com.