DAY’S DEBT

Women playing Santa is a lost Claus

SANTA Claus must not be portrayed by women, councillors have decided.

A debate was sparked when a female volunteer offered to play the role in Father Christmas’ annual parade in a town, handing out sweets to children.

Critics of the idea in Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham, said it would be a bizarre case of political correctness. Members of Great Aycliffe council’s recreation committee have now rejected the recommendation from a sub-committee to allow women to be Santa at the parade.

The council said: “The committee confirmed by resolution the role of Santa Claus should continue to be a male role.”