ONE of the world's greatest Santas has tied the knot in Ledbury after a truly unique stag night challenge.

Phil Burton's friends entered him into the Santa Claus World Championship during a stag weekend in Samnaum, Switzerland, and he proved a natural.

On Saturday, Phil and bride Leonie Labistour married at Ledbury Register Office, the groom having officially become the UK's first ever finalist in the annual event, together with his eight team-mates.

A cheering crowd of around 8,000 watched the UK team - dressed in £5 Santa suits from Woolworths - compete in categories like chimney climbing, snowball throwing and delivering presents in a sled race.

The team included Phil's best man, Andrew Callam, of London, and Chris Harris, of Ledbury.

Phil, of Homend Crescent, said: "We got to the finals and we weren't even trying! In the qualifying round, there were 30 teams and we came fifth. We were shocked, because we never planned to get through.

"There were 15 teams in the final and we came last. But we plan to re-enter next year, become official celebrities and get invited to switch on Ledbury's Christmas lights!"

Other teams including the Spaniards, who sported Inquisition costumes and eventual winners, the Austrians, who opted for a Mozart look.

Phil said: "I was interviewed on Swiss, Italian and German television and also Italian radio, perhaps because we were the first UK team to enter.

"I wore my Santa suit for three days. I wasn't embarrassed. I had an excuse, although people in the town thought I was collecting for charity and tried to give me money."

The entry was kept a close secret from Phil but Leonie knew, because her brother, Paul, was invited on to the team, but couldn't make it.

Leonie said: "Typically, his friends do get up to some unusual escapades. But I am really proud to be married to one of the best Santas in the world."