Santa doesn't just bring gifts. He brings hope too

The idea that Santa Claus can bring so much hope, and generate so much expectation, of the kind that children have a right to have, is so powerful, writes Fergus Finlay

On Sunday night I went up to the attic and got out my red suit. I had to check it out, to make sure no moths had been at it. It’s a bit battered after all these years, but so am I, so there’s no harm in that. But all the pieces are intact — the big white beard, the leggings that go over my shoes, the huge black belt, and the jacket trimmed with fur and a zip that goes up to my chin.

When I got the suit originally, dunno how many years ago now, there was padding in the box — the sort that gives you a fine big belly to go with a deep voice. But for some odd reason, I’ve never needed the padding. The suit fits just fine without it.