A last-minute Santa replacement saved the free Day of Christmas in Newport on Saturday.

The original Santa, who was due to switch on the town’s lights, pulled out with illness leaving the possibility of disappointing hundreds of people.

Laura Jones, clerk to Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council, who helped to organise the event, said: “When I was told Santa was ill, I started to panic because we needed someone special to turn on the lights.

“Thankfully, the Salvation Army was holding a Santa’s Grotto during the day and I spoke to them. A gentleman called Luke Furlong said he would be happy to help us, so he was all ready and dressed for the big switch-on, and he was great!

“He also said he would be delighted to come back next year, so it was a huge relief. We’ll make a donation to the Salvation Army’s Toy Appeal as a thank you.”

Big crowds attended the event, with live entertainment on the stage coming from Greg Barnes, Long Island Stompers, Solent Swings, Starlight Academy Dancers, and magicians, Huxley and Kai.

There was a variety of stalls including outdoor circus workshops (from Wildwood Workshops), fairground rides and games (from Vintage Island Amusements), as well as a giant inflatable snow globe, bouncy castle, and indoor disco.

Laura added: “It was absolutely fantastic and it seems to get bigger and bigger each year; people are really keen to come along and the performers are delighted to be asked to appear.

“I can’t wait until next year, but I’ll have a couple of weeks break before starting the organisation again!”