The story of Santa Claus has its origins in the legends surrounding the generosity of Saint Nicholas, whose feast day is celebrated on 06 December.

Saint Nicholas was a fourth century Christian Bishop from Myra - now Turkey. He became the patron saint of children.

Today, Santa Claus is perhaps one of the most recognisable figures associated with Christmas celebrations.

Every year, hundreds of people line up to play the role of Santa in department stores, shopping centres and promotional events in many countries around the world. There are many companies, seek the help of Santa Claus to spread that little bit of joy during Christmastime.

To play the role of Santa Claus in malls, or in shopping centre or on special events, there is a rigorous training and testing for these jolly fellows. The Santas are fully trained, police and reference checked and are dressed indelightful suits plus that special glow in their eyes.

Santa is an important role, we uphold Santa as being non judgemental, being a child's special friend at all times and staying within the character many of us know and love.

How to be a Santa Claus?

It is fun to be Santa, aside from the physical qualities of a future Santa,it is also important that Santa are trained insuring that Santas are careful not to promise a child anything, how to deal with shy children and children with special needs, especial in the diverse nature of families today.

In 1822 Clement Moore composed a poem " A visit from Saint Nicholas", it was published as a christmas gift for his children. In it he describes Santa Claus as:

• He was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot, A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack;
• His eyes how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
• His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry;
• His droll little month was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow;
• He had a broad face, and a little round belly That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump-a right jolly old elf;
• He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

The special meaning of Christmas may be different for everyone. But one thing is certain the magic of a jolly gentleman called Santa will bring Christmas cheer to young and old alike.