A local councillor has donned a Santa suit for two days in the run-up to Christmas to spread joy and hand out presents.

Oldham Labour councillor Shaid Mushtaq, the cabinet member for corporate services, said it was a "first" for him as he dressed up as Santa at the grotto at Roc N Rolls Cafe in the Holts Community Centre this week.

Councillor Mushtaq went to the grotto accompanied by his "elves", councillor Jenny Harrison and deputy mayor, Zahid Chauhan, where the trio funded the event and gave out presents.

The councillor said: "It was the fantastic team led by Kaylee that did all the hard work, thank you.

"The kids' and families' reaction was well worth it."

Dr Chauhan also said in a post on social media: "Thank you to staff at Roc n Rolls Cafe on Holts for making tonight special for kids in Holts.

"Councillor Shaid Mushtaq is definitely recommended as Santa."

However, before he had time to hang his Santa suit up, Cllr Mushtaq returned with his "elves" to hand out more presents at the local charity, Oldham Greenhill, which has been working hard to deliver the HAF (holiday activities and food) programme throughout 2022.

"Huge well done to Oldham Greenhill on delivery of the HAD programme.

"The kids have loved every minute and they got to meet Santa - that's twice in two days - and his elves", Cllr Mushtaq added.

Oldham Greenhill said the team had a "party and lots of fun" while the children enjoyed their presents from Santa Mushtaq.