Father Christmas and his reindeer have arrived at St Stephens in Hull city centre.
He has taken time out of his busy schedule to visit his friend in the region after so many people pledged to the mail's I Believe Christmas campaign.
The big man led a procession on his sleigh through the shopping centre and will be mingling with shoppers until 3pm. His trusty reindeer are contentedly munching on hay at the main door of the centre on Ferensway.
Santa personally greeted Harry Anderson, 5, and his sister Fae, 7, of east Hull, by name.
The two youngsters, who were in awe that Father Christmas remembered them, are both asking for a Supergrafix this year.
Their mum, Jane, said: " I think Fae was more shocked than Harry when Father Christmas recognised him and said hello.
"It is really lovely - such a nice little sleigh and lovely reindeer."
The gathered crowds were given sweets and lollies by a few of Santa's little helpers.
Finley Green, 3, of west Hull, was excited to meet Father Christmas and asked for a Fireman Sam scooter.
His mum Michelle said: "We came down early for Finley, he has been very excited. it is a really lovely thing to do with the kids."
