United effort to bring Santa back
For decades generations of South Devon children have enjoyed visiting Santa at the Rossiter's store in Palace Avenue.
His presence this year was under threat because of the store's closure.
The town's traders refused to let such a tradition die, however, and pledged to provide funds to purchase presents for as many children as possible.
Workers have created a grotto at the Palace Theatre, and Santa is due to arrive on November 28.
Darryl Hayes, owner of Glendevon Furnishings, approached numerous businesses for assistance.
He said: "The theatre decided they would have a grotto, but they didn't have any presents to give the children.
"I couldn't let them go to see Father Christmas and leave without a present.
"I had limited time, only a couple of hours, but I got a fantastic response from everyone I asked.
"Not everybody was approached, but if anyone would like to contribute, there is still an option for them to put a bit of money forward to buy toys.
"I'm a Paigntonian and I remember as a child seeing Father Christmas arrive in the town. It was packed.
"He would throw presents into the crowd and the children loved it. It was fabulous. That's why we can't lose this tradition.
"Being the father of a three-year-old myself, I know Christmas is the most magical time."
Martin Hoare, Palace Theatre operations coordinator, said: "We've been able to create a great grotto.
"We've used props we already had, and when Rossiter's closed we were given a lot of Christmas displays we're using.
"People have volunteered to put the grotto together with our staff, so to give Santa a home has been a real community effort.
"The traders have been brilliant in finding money so each child can have a gift.
"Also, children will be able to bring their letters for Santa along to the theatre and post them in a special post box."
Santa and his sleigh will lead a procession through Paignton on November 28, leaving the Palace Theatre at 9.30am.
He will return to the theatre at 10.30am, and will then be in his grotto every Saturday throughout December.
Santa will step up his visits to the Palace Theatre from December 21, being there every day until 2pm on Christmas Eve.
