Presents stolen on Christmas eve

Police staff from Papanui and New Brighton had their work cut out for them this morning having to catch up with Santa and his reindeer after a family visiting Christchurch had their presents stolen in the early hours of this morning.

At about 3.00am this morning the families two daughters aged 4 and 6 were woken after burglars took off with their recently filled Santa sacks and the family car. The family who are on holiday from the North Island were staying at the Meadow Park Holiday camp in Papanui.

A Police unit nearby stopped one of the offenders a 26 year old man leaving the scene in a vehicle and recovered the 4 year olds Santa sack and presents.

Police then managed to track down Santa Clause and make arrangements for another load of freshly wrapped presents. Unfortunately Santa was to busy to make the second delivery and the local Police dropped them off on his behalf to the delight of the family and the 6 year old.

At least one other person left in the stolen car and is still being sought by Police.

The outstanding vehicle is a Mazda Familia, coloured silver, Registration YN6144.

Any one with information on the outstanding offender or the stolen vehicle can contact the Christchurch Central Police on 3637400.