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Video: Santa caught on camera

WORLD EXCLUSIVE

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

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 Strood 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 - was looking for veg to feed his trusty reindeer friends parked up outside.

Witnesses revealed he 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 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 Medway? E-mail medwaymessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk .