Christmas has come early for children at St George's Hospital who were surprised with a visit from Father Christmas this week.

Carrying a sack full of presents donated to the New Wimbledon Theatre, Santa and his elves brightened up a ward of 70 children at the Tooting hospital on Tuesday.

About 150 presents were donated to the hospital by theatre staff and members of the public.

The remainder will be given to children on Christmas day.

Santa Claus and elves Charlie and Kara all star in the New Wimbledon Theatre's festive production of Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey which opens on Monday.