Family Expresses Distress Over Disappearance of 20ft Inflatable Santa

A man has reported that his family was “distraught” after their 20ft (6m) inflatable Santa vanished from their garden. On Friday, Dean Thomas, who resides on Condor Grove in Blackpool, celebrated the “big switch-on” of his family’s Christmas lights display. However, by Sunday night, the festive character was no longer present. Mr. Thomas has since issued a public appeal for assistance in locating the Santa, which he stated cost £800, and has shared CCTV footage online. Lancashire Police confirmed that investigations into an alleged theft are continuing, though no arrests have yet occurred. CCTV footage captured by the family seemingly depicted an individual on the premises at 23:25 GMT on Sunday, prior to the alleged removal of the Father Christmas decoration. Mr. Thomas indicated that his children are concerned about the possibility of a similar event recurring. He stated, “The community here in Blackpool have been an amazing support, but now we just want it [the inflatable] back.” For over ten years, the Condor Grove Christmas Lights display has generated funds for local charities, an endeavor Mr. Thomas expressed pride in. Mr. Thomas further commented, “We love supporting charities which get no NHS or government backing, and we want to put smiles on faces and see new people, but this has destroyed us.” He added, “We’re doing everything we can, but my kids are distraught. I hope we can get this message out there and find the Santa.” Authorities are requesting that anyone possessing information step forward.