A FAMILY of otters received a sleigh full of presents from Santa.

Resident short-clawed Asian otter Johnny and his pups were given the treats at Weymouth Sea Life Park. Presents included soft ball toys, puzzles and fish treats.

Displays curator at the Park Fiona Smith said: “Our otters are very thankful to Father Christmas. As he is currently visiting Weymouth Sea Life, he has agreed they can unwrap them now.”

She added: “The toys bring out their individual characters for visitors to observe and are a stimulating activity for them to enjoy.”

Father Christmas spent the weekend visiting the park and, according to the staff, after a quick trip back to the North Pole to check the elves are busy making toys for Christmas Eve, he will be back this weekend for daytime and evening visits until Christmas Eve.

Laura Culshaw, marketing co-ordinator for Weymouth Sea Life, said: “We’re really excited to welcome Father Christmas to Weymouth Sea Life this year and have had lots of fun setting up the park for his arrival.

“We’re especially excited for our late openings, where children can bring parents along for free and visit him in his magical Christmas cabin which will be twinkling through the festive fir tree walk.”

Meanwhile, performing arts students from Weymouth College performed a festive choreographed dance. The dance took place before the opening of the Tower in the morning to a remix of Mariah Carey’s ‘All I want for Christmas’.