A SALINE photographer has put a smile on the faces of children at Victoria Hospital this Christmas by sending them presents and Santa!

Rachel Watson decided to turn bad news into a great opportunity when a photography session with Santa at her business didn’t turn out to be as popular as she hoped.

The 31-year-old mum explained to the Press: “I hardly had any bookings and I was actually really upset!

“There was a gap of about two-and-a-half hours so instead of sitting and twiddling our thumbs I asked Santa if we could go and visit the children’s ward at Victoria Hospital.

“Wonderful friends and family sent Christmas presents to be gifted by Santa and we still have more coming in, so I’ll have to go again!”

Santa and Rachel spent their lunchtime on Saturday seeing the faces of the patients on the children’s ward light up from their spontaneous trip.

Rachel added: “There was one 11-year-old girl who got some make-up and she was absolutely ecstatic because that’s all she been asking her mum for!

“One mum was crying, and it was enough to make me start!

“It was great to see everyone’s faces but I really enjoyed it too.

“The children loved it but it was also a treat for the parents because it’s hard for them and I know exactly what it’s like to have a child in hospital.”