SANTA is arriving by surprise vehicle at a farm shop near Taunton next month.

He's keeping his mode of transport to Rumwell Farm Shop at 9.30am on Sunday, December 10 a closely guarded secret.

Once there, he'll spend the festive season in his cabin.

Anne Mitchell, partner at the shop, said: “Father Christmas has told us that he’ll be resting the reindeer on December 10 to ensure they are fit and ready to travel the world over and deliver presents for children on Christmas Eve, which is why he has decided to pay a visit to us on a surprise mode of transport to meet all the boys and girls who have been nice this year.

“What vehicle he’ll arrive on will be kept top secret until the day.

"It’s very exciting and we’re sure Santa will enjoy his trip and that all the children who see him arrive here with us on December 10 will find it very exciting.

"It’s free to attend and we’d like a big crowd to come along to greet him.

"While everyone is waiting, we’ll have Christmas carols and tunes playing outside that they can sing-along to.

“It promises to be a fun morning out for all the family.

"Once he’s arrived, Santa will spend some time chatting with the crowds and his friendly elves will be handing out sweets.

“We hope lots of people turn out to greet Father Christmas and join us as we start our countdown to Christmas in earnest.

"Anyone who would like to make ‘welcome’ banners and flags to greet Santa is very welcome to do so.

“Father Christmas’s arrival is free for anyone who wishes to come along and watch.

"Our café will be open as normal on the day serving breakfasts and other refreshments, and our shop will also be open for anyone wishing to shop on the day.”

After his arrival, Santa will take up residence in his cabin grotto on Sunday, December 10, from 10am-4pm, then on Sunday, December 17, 9am-4pm, Tuesday, December 19, 9am-5pm and Thursday, December 21, 9am-5pm.

Anne added: “With the help of his trusty band of elves, he’ll wish everyone a merry Christmas and give each child a wrapped, age-appropriate gift to take home.

“Tickets cost £13.95 per child and can be purchased at http://tinyurl.com/mwfau4y3. Booking is essential and must be made via our website and we can only allow a maximum of four children with an appropriate adult, or two.”