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Video: Santa caught on camera

WORLD EXCLUSIVE

by Leon Watson

Here is Santa - caught on camera for the first time today hunting for carrots in KENT.

Grainy footage shows the bearded gift-giver out and about only hours before his big night begins.

Seemingly not bothered about being seen in public, globe-trotting Santa waltzes into a packed Medway service station shop.

And - as stunned shoppers look on in amazement - the chubby philanthropist cruised the yoghurt aisle before picking up some snacks.

It's believed Santa - who bought eight carrots with a credit card and topped up his Clubcard points - was looking for veg to feed his trusty reindeer friends parked up outside.

Witnesses revealed Santa wore a distinctive red suit with black boots and "appeared anxious".

On leaving, Santa was heard grumbling about being "just a glorified postman" and having to travel "half-way round the world".

But he posed for photos with the Tesco Express staff and wished them "Merry Christmas" before disappearing.

The clip - believed to be a world-first - explodes the myth that Santa doesn't exist.

It was shot at 8.30am by quick-thinking KentOnline reporter Lauren Hood, who happened to be there by chance.

Just hours later the man dubbed "Father Christmas" was due to embark on his epic annual present-giving mission.

One excited onlooker told KentOnline: "At first I couldn't believe it, but then it made sense.

"My eyes don't tell me lies, and besides, who else would be out on Christmas Eve in a red suit like that?

"Santa must have been getting ready for his trip round the world, maybe making a last check on who's been good and who's not."

A child, who also did not want to be named, added: "Just when I was beginning to doubt the stories I saw him.

"Now I know he's for real this is the best Christmas ever!"

Santa's secret Lapland HQ was unavailable to comment today.

Have you seen Santa out and about in Kent? Post your comments in the box below or e-mailmultimediadesk@thekmgroup.co.uk.