FATHER Christmas has been getting into training ahead of the big day by taking on an unusual form of exercise.

Santa Claus was spotted abseiling at the Cow and Calf in Ilkley Moor as he limbers up to deliver everyone’s presents on Christmas Eve night.

But his reindeers must have been resting at the North Pole as they were not with him.

Adam Collinge, of Baildon, who took the pictures of Santa, said he was surprised at what he saw during a walk in the district beauty spot.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Father Christmas abseiling at the Cow and Calf, Ilkley Moor Father Christmas abseiling at the Cow and Calf, Ilkley Moor

He said: “He must be getting into training so he’s ready for going down people’s chimneys at Christmas.

“He is illusive. I was shocked and surprised at what I saw. It’s a bit of fun I guess ahead of the big day.

“I was just out for a walk. Maybe he will be spotted in other places across the district before Christmas.”

The rocks on Ilkley Moor are a popular walking spot for people in the Bradford district. However, not too many people are brave enough to put on the safety equipment and abseil down them, but Santa is used to heights on his sleigh.