Santa’s back, jingling bells and all
Who is the man behind the white beard?
The News heard it in hushed tones and whispers. Were the rumours true? Is Santa back?
Walking down the passageway in Key West Shopping Centre, News journalist Chantelle Fourie could not believe what she saw. There he was, beard, belly, red suit and all.
As the News, along with many curious children and grown-ups alike, walked closer, it seemed the rumours were true indeed. Santa is back – and he asking everyone what they wanted for Christmas.
Laughing loudly with his hand on his belly, just as Santa does, he waved the News closer for a photo.
One camera flash, a sweetie and a calendar photo with Santa later, the News got to know the mythical man behind the beard.
Little monkeys, old dogs, small children, grown men and even Afrikaans singer Nicholis Louw have sat on Santa’s lap. For the ninth year Santa and Mrs Clause are back to bring the festive spirit to town.
“I also bring gifts,” Santa laughed.
“I will be here until 24 December every day to take photos and give out sweeties.”
And what does Santa do when he is not sitting in his big chair?
“I wrap presents to give out in December,” Phillip Swanepoel … uh … we mean Santa, said.
The 70-year-old shared his thoughts on the season of giving and said it’s the most important month of the year. From little children who run to him every year, to giving elderly women a gift for their birthday, Santa understands how important giving is.
“The way someone’s face lights up when they see you have given a bit of thought to spoiling them with a gift, is the most wonderful thing to see all-year round,” he said.
If you wanted to look for Santa throughout the year, you won’t be able to recognise him, Santa said. He dresses very differently and his hair is pulled back. But in December, you can expect to see him nowhere else but in his chair at Key West.
“And if you bring me a letter, cookies and milk, maybe you will get a gift,” he said.
From R50 to R100 you can buy a printed photo of your family and Santa. He will be at the food court every day from 9am until the shops close.
Also read:
• Giving a pet as a gift this Christmas?
• Cops to spend Christmas in jail
• Christmas message for Muldersdrift
