CHRISTMAS has come early with the beginning of spring at a countryside hotspot near Worcester with the arrival of a baby reindeer called Dasher.

Dasher, believed the be the first reindeer born in Worcester, was born at about 6pm on Monday, April 28. to mum Comet, Worcester's psychic reindeer, at the Mayfly Café at Cob House Fisheries.

The calf was named by 12-year-old Jade Taylor, as after moments of it being born, the baby Reindeer got up and followed Mum around the paddock.

Jade said: "Look. It is dashing after Comet, let’s call it Dasher."

Dasher now joins Prancer, Dancer, Cupid and Comet, to make up half of the reindeer that pull Santa's sleigh.

Helen Taylor, who owns The Mayfly Café and Cob House Fisheries with her husband, Robert, said they were delighted at the arrival and both mother and baby were doing well with the other reindeer

"Prancer and Dancer are getting ready for their Christmas outings which are very popular and of course, they all like to welcome Santa for the Breakfast with Santa that is always a big hit here in the Mayfly Café at Christmas time."

All the animals, including the reindeer, alpacas, goats, pigs, and birds, at the site, in Wichenford, near Worcester, can be seen at any time of the year.

Since it opened in 2010, the café has provided various outdoor educational opportunities, coarse fishing and the ability to interact with the resident animals, as well as sold products from its animals, such as hand-spun wool from the alpacas and buttons or key rings made from the reindeer antlers.

For more information, opening times, or a list of what is available at the site, contact Helen Taylor 01886 888517, or visit cobhouse.org.