Secret Santas: Meet two very different men suiting up to bring magic and joy this festive season

For around a month every year, these two secret Santas are the centre of attention at Christmas festivals and grottoes. They tell Ellie O'Byrne about the emotions and joy it brings, which makes it worth the year-round work it takes

Andrew Joy: 'When a child comes and meets Santy one-on-one, it steps aside from the commercialism of Christmas and goes into the element of magic, awe and wonder.'

In a small office at Cashel Town Shopping Centre, Geno Kavanagh is suiting up in a hurry. He pulls on his big black boots, combs his beard in a small mirror, and finishes off his ensemble with a pair of white gloves.

Brushing up on holiday magic, Geno perfects his natural Santa look. Picture: Noel Sweeney