SANTA swapped his sleigh for a Puma Mk2 helicopter as RAF Benson personnel flew in presents for patients at Oxford Children’s Hospital.

They landed at the helipad at the John Radcliffe Hospital on Monday before distributing gifts to about 50 children.

Youngsters watched from the windows of the hospital as Sgt Andy Greenfield, dressed as Santa, stepped from the helicopter with his colleagues.

RAF Benson spokeswoman Nikki Hamilton said: “We have been making this visit to the hospital every year since 230 Squadron relocated from Northern Ireland in 2009.

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“There was a training sortee operating in the area and it swung by to pick up the team heading to the hospital.

“They took off from the base at 12.30pm and arrived at the hospital at about 1pm.

“The helipad at the hospital is used for emergencies so we made sure we had clearance to land first.

“The presents were donated by the squadron and families living on the base and the team managed to get round all the wards to say hello to the patients and their brothers and sisters too.

“Parents have posted comments on our Facebook page to say how much they enjoyed the visit.”

Mum Helen Hodgkinson posted: “Father Christmas on a helicopter, and a few men in uniform, was very special.

“It means loads to the children to get visits like this, especially when on treatment like mine.”

Flight Lieutenant Karim Zid, a pilot with 230 Squadron, said: “Delivering Santa to the children’s hospital is one of the highlights of the year for many of us on the Puma Force.

“Thank you very much to all those who donated presents – it made a lot of children happy!”

Master Aircrewman Gareth Attridge added: “It was an absolutely brilliant day.

“We were all really pleased to be able to help Santa to bring some smiles to the children – big and small.”

Christine Turner, senior play specialist at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: The visit of RAF Benson and Santa is one of the highlights of the Christmas calendar.

“It’s a very special, magical event for all the children and their families who really enjoy watching Santa arrive by helicopter.

“We really appreciate the staff at RAF Benson taking time out of their busy schedules to come and visit us and for making sure Santa arrives safely!”

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