When Mark Turner, 58, from North Cowton, began growing his trademark Santa beard at the beginning of lockdown back in March, little did he know it would lead to him becoming an unexpected internet star.
But the video of his surprise visit to Bedale’s Mini Explorers Nursery with his ‘naughty elf’ companion Tara Trainor, has already racked up more than 8,000 views on the nursery’s Facebook page, much to the delight of the children who watched the magic unfold online.
Nursery owner Steph Pybus said that Mini Explorers has been overwhelmed by the interest the video has attracted when it was only intended as an innocent bit of fun to raise the children’s spirits.
“When we told the children their annual Santa visit had been cancelled due to Covid they were all quite upset, so we decided to spring this little surprise on them,” said Steph.
“The whole Mini Explorers team came into work on Sunday to film Santa Mark – and his amazing beard – decorating the whole farm school using magic exploding baubles.
“The look on the children’s faces when they watched the video back and saw their rooms being covered in glitter and baubles and Christmas trees has been priceless.”
Santa Mark, who is the “very-supportive” father of the nursery’s deputy manager, Laura, said that the opportunity to arrive at the Farm School in a tractor scoop was pretty special, but not as special as the opportunity to bring smiles to so many children’s faces.
“It’s just brilliant,” said Mark.
“This year especially it’s all about the little things we can all do to bring a bit of joy and happiness.”
Watch the video here.
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