Forget the July heatwave - Santa Claus has been spotted in Banbury!

Santa Claus is the last thing you would expect to see in Banbury as the summer sun shined down on us.

And you might even think that the heatwave had gone to your head when you heard the sound of Christmas tunes.

But that is exactly what residents at Agnes Court saw and heard during their Christmas themed celebrations - in July!

Jess Neville, activities co-ordinator, said that the unusual idea was hatched last year during the pandemic – and might now become an unusual tradition.

She added: "We started this last year to boost residents’ morale due to all the Covid restrictions that were in place in the December, this was such a big hit that we now make this a yearly event.

"We decorated the dining room and outside with Christmas decorations and a Christmas tree, staff and resident all dressed up in tinsel and Christmas t-shirts.

"Christmas music was played throughout the day and residents took part in Christmas cake and biscuit decorating along with the classic Christmas karaoke."

Louise Maxfield, a resident of Agnes Court, said: "It was an enjoyable day and felt like Christmas, just warmer."

To top off the day, chefs cooked a three-course festive meal along with Christmas crackers and Santa table decorations.

Agnes Court resident Matt Barton dressed up as Santa and handed out presents to everyone. He said: "I loved playing Santa! The Christmas music started early so it put everyone in a good mood."