Christmas has come early for people in Helensburgh after Santa Claus was spotted delivering parcels.

FedEx courier David Walker donned his annual red suit and white beard as he carried out his delivery rounds in the town, Dumbarton and Clydebank this year.

The driver has been dressing up as Santa during the week before Christmas since taking up his role several years ago.

He told the Advertiser: "This is my sixth or seventh year dressing up as Santa. I started in the delivery job and as we got closer to Christmas I had one person tell me that I would make a good Santa whilst out doing my runs.

"So the following year I got my suit and away I was.

"I haven't looked back since and it is one of the highlights of the job."

And David says he believes his festive gesture is one for all ages to enjoy.

"It is never just for children," he added. I do it for the elderly, the parents and anybody who loves Christmas.

"I usually just drive along West Clyde Street and toot the horn and give everybody a wave.

"The best part of being Santa in the run-up to Christmas is just being able to make people smile. Seeing the look on people's faces makes it completely worthwhile.

"When someone pulls up next to you, it is funny because they are hanging out the car window trying to get a picture.

"Half of the time I just stop and let them come to take a picture."

However, the courier driver has successfully navigated his way through the curious questions of children as he is seen with the red-nosed reindeer.

And he only has one festive message to send to children in Helensburgh and Lomond as he is completing his last routes in the town until Saturday.

"I always tell them I am out practising just to remember where all the good children live in Helensburgh before I come out with Ruldolph on the big night.", David continued.

"I hope everybody has a very Merry Christmas!"

A spokesperson for FedEx added: “He always receives positive feedback and has been told on numerous occasions that he has made peoples day when they see him delivering on his route. 

"Children especially get excited when they see Santa delivering parcels on the high street or walking up their path.”