ELF AND SAFETY’S THE PRIORITY AT SCOTS SCHOOL FOR SANTAS

Businessman Stuart Thompson, 51, started the one-day classes to teach Saint Nick’s oldest tricks last year . He was deluged with requests for training from as far afield as Hong Kong, and the recession has had little effect on demand this year.

The training at Mabie Farm Park near Dumfries includes a history of Santa, voice training, costumes, make-up and role-playing exercises.

However, it’s not all fun and laughter, as the students learn health and safety skills such as how to evacuate a grotto in an emergency.

Mr Thompson, who runs an entertainment firm, said: “ It’s important to stress there is only one real Santa. I’m training helpers to man his grottos while he’s busy. ”