A SEVEN-year-old Swindon boy got the chance to ride in a helicopter with Santa after winning a Halloween fancy dress competition.

Jerome Davies, seven, was awarded the special helicopter ride with Santa, when his stag beetle costume won the fancy dress competition at Greenbridge Retail and Leisure Centre.

Grange Infants and Junior School pupil Jerome also took his eight-year-old sister Liberty and parents John and Carol along for the trip. A white stretch limousine picked them up at their home.

They joined Santa Blunsdon House Hotel before being whisked off in the helicopter to the Greenbridge centre, passing over Jerome's home and school.

Mrs Davies said her son was determined to win the fancy-dress competition, which was held last month.

"Jerome put on some black tights, a balaclava and a hood and I added some horns, and it turned into a beetle", she said.

"It was probably the most unusual outfit at the competition and he was so delighted he won."

Lionel Dicks, Greenbridge centre manager said: "The competition was a great opportunity to give something back to families who show loyalty to the retail and leisure park all year round.

"I'm sure this will make their Christmas very special."