Variety, the Children's Charity has tapped Santa Claus as a celebrity ambassador, with Christopher Biggins stepping into the Father Christmas suit to 'spread the word about Variety's work, through a unique Christmas appeal to help raise desperately needed funds'.

Santa commented 'Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s a real honour to be appointed the role of Celebrity Ambassador. It’s been a very tough year for children and families in the UK. Did you know nearly four million children are living in poverty? Variety exists to improve the lives of these children and I want to make sure the charity can carry on doing their amazing work. With your help, I am sure that we will be able to make this Christmas and many more, even more magical'.