She may not have a sleigh but Mrs Christmas has still managed to dish out some presents in Sidcup.

Maureen Christmas from Sidcup, a customer assistant at M&S Bexleyheath, has been spreading Christmas cheer this year by delivering hampers of festive treats to the Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice.

Mrs Christmas, 77, started her career at M&S Bexleyheath 23 years ago as a Christmas temp, and has spent this Christmas true to her name.

She said: “I’m delighted to step into the big man’s shoes this Christmas to show our support for a wonderful local charity. With my name, I always get lots of attention this time of year, so it’s great to use that for good and support such a deserving cause.

“I really enjoyed visiting the hospice and delivering festive treats to the patients. Throughout the year I always attend the store’s fundraising activities for the hospice, including bingo nights and pamper evenings.”

Mrs Christmas said she loves the festive season, and spends every year with the Christmas family, including her five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

M&S Bexleyheath supports the Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice as its chosen charity of the year.

Last year the charity cared for over 2,500 people and families in Bexley and Royal Greenwich.