Father Christmas has stopped off at a train station today to meet passengers.

The big fella arrived at Maidstone West this lunchtime, where parents and children were waiting to meet him as he got off the train.

His special stop-off was organised by the Kent Community Rail Partnership - a group of organisations including borough and parish councils, Southeastern, and other transport and groups.

The appearance is in aid of the Railway Children, a charity supporting children living in the street in the UK and overseas.

As well as collecting for the charity, Santa's elves also helped to decorate the station ready for his arrival.

Matthew Fraser, Station Manager at Maidstone West said: “We meet so many people passing through our station, so it’s great when we’re able to surprise our passengers with something a little different, particularly whilst raising money for a great cause.”