A full-scale search and rescue operation broke out in northwest England after one of Santa’s reindeer bolted from a Christmas event, prompting police, the Coastguard, and even Royal Marines to team up to bring it home.
Southport Offshore Rescue Trust revealed that crews were dispatched on November 29 to track down the runaway reindeer after it escaped a festive celebration in Formby. The animal had been missing for several hours and was last seen heading toward the coastline, triggering fears it could wander into the River Mersey.
Police initially tracked the reindeer but eventually lost visual contact as darkness set in. With visibility dropping, Merseyside Police called in additional support, including HM Coastguard teams from Southport and Crosby and rescue crews equipped with thermal binoculars.
Police, coastguard and marines save reindeer
“Using thermal binoculars, our quad team located the reindeer on the beach,” Southport Offshore Rescue Trust said. “Although capture proved difficult, the team successfully shepherded the animal into the sand dunes at Altcar Rifle Range, where a police drone maintained watch.”
As the reindeer settled in the dunes, a veterinarian, assisted by Royal Marines, was finally able to secure the festive fugitive safely.
After hours of searching across beaches, dunes, and coastal paths, the runaway was recovered without injury. And with Santa’s roster back to full strength, Christmas had been saved.
The reindeer has since been returned to its handlers, bringing the holiday chaos to a close.
