'Ho... ho... holes in my suit'

Julie Gilbert • Published 23 Dec 2009 14:00

One of Santa's most dedicated helpers has worn out two costumes over almost three decades of asking kids what they want for Christmas.

Grandad Ian Petrie, 71, had to get the elves to make him a new outfit this year after the old one started to show signs of wear and tear.

For the past four years Ian has been appearing in the famous red outfit at Goldenhill Primary's Christmas fete in Hardgate and at its festive parties.

But he has actually been playing the part for more than 30 years in other areas and is on to his third Santa costume.

The Dalmuir man told the Post: "I've been doing it for four years at Goldenhill.

"I used to do it for my own children, so I've been doing it for twenty-five or thirty years.

"I got a brand new Santa costume this year which I paid just over a hundred pounds for.

"I just do it for fun and for the children.

"The money raised helps goes towards buy books and things for the school.

"My grandson, who is two-and-a-half, came up for the first time this year and he didn't know who I was in my disguise."

Ian's older grandchildren are still at Goldenhill Primary although they are now too old to have a Santa party.

But he is still happy to go along for the next number of years as his younger grandchildren will be joining the school soon, and he really enjoys making the youngsters happy.

For an extra special touch to the Christmas celebrations he sprinkles fairy dust and personally replies to children's letters.

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This article appeared in Clydebank Post 23 Dec 09

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