Santa's friends descend on Chiswick Business Park

Pupils from St Mary’s RC Primary School, Chiswick, enjoyed a rare opportunity to meet a family of three reindeer at Chiswick Park Enjoy-Work.

As well as allowing the opportunity for some festive fun, the visit had a more serious side as the children were able to learn more about the history, habits and biology of Santa’s fabled helpers.

The reindeer were allowed to roam within their specially adapted enclosure on the lawns of the park, displaying a friendly curiosity towards their young visitors. Delighting pupils and teachers, as well as the people working on the park, the reindeer prompted a barrage of questions from both young and old that the owners were only too happy to answer.  

Issy Brophy (Year 1/2) said "It was fantastic!  The reindeer were really friendly and we got to stroke them."  She assured us that all the children were careful not to tire the animals out because they had to rest before Christmas Eve!

Emma Jones, from Chiswick Park Enjoy-Work, commented: “We already enjoy a number of strong links and mutually beneficial partnerships with the local community, so the reindeer visit was a great way to build on that. The children really enjoyed learning about the reindeer and it was a brilliant treat for them to be able to get so close to such fascinating creatures. Their visit has helped to get us all into the festive spirit!” 

December 23, 2004