FATHER Christmas will soon be barge-ing his way on to the Basingstoke Canal in Odiham.

Accessible Boating will be running boat trips to pick him up from his waterside grotto so that he can meet young visitors and distribute presents on board.

The trips will run on December 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 23 between 2pm and 5.30pm at half-hourly intervals.

Trips cost £10 per person and every child aged 11 and under receives a gift.

Seats must be pre-booked by calling Accessible Boating’s bookings manager on 07934 926683.

Proceeds will go to Accessible Boating, a charity offering opportunities for those with access difficulties to go boating on the canal.