PREPARING for Christmas Eve and their big flight to deliver all the presents around the world, two of Santa’s reindeer are spending the run up to their take off next week – in the Forest of Dean!

The two flying reindeer, Cosmic and Blitzen, are being looked after by their personal keeper, Donna, at Oakdean Smallholding in Lydbrook, which they share with many other animals, including goats, llamas and exotic wildfowl.

Their incredible celebrity status has also led to a whole series of personal appearances, where people get the chance to meet with two of the most famous animals in the world. This month, they have appeared at many events, and this coming weekend sees their final showing at the Three Counties Garden Centre in Newent.

Donna told the Review: “They really are lovely creatures, and they are now three-years-old so their antlers are getting much bigger every year.

“After their Christmas Eve exertions, we expect their antlers will be shed early on in the new year, and their new ones will start to grow in the spring.”

She added: “Their celebrity status hasn’t affected them, and they are very down to earth about being able to fly.

“Santa also thinks that the personal appearances are an excellent way for the reindeer to meet with children, so that they can tell which ones have been good this year, and can have their presents delivered.”