The grottoes at the Co-ops on Corporation Street and in the Lower Precinct remain empty as the search for Father Christmas continues.

The stores' product manager Jeff Garner believes the need to be vetted to do the job could be a reason the post remains unfilled.

If someone fails to come forward, it will be first time in over 50 years the Co-ops have had an empty grotto.

Even if people are quite innocent, they don't want the intrusion of being vetted

Jeff Garner Co-op Product Manager

Mr Garner says the seasonal staffing shortage has been caused by the retirement of the stores' long-standing Father Christmas.

He said: "Unfortunately we've lost our regular Santa - it's all got too much for him.

"We've had one or two people take an interest, but it's been a very poor response.

"We've been looking for a replacement since September.

"We've put cards in the store window, advertised at the job centre - we've even been asking people in the store."

'Too much bother'

Mr Garner thinks the need for improved security for people who work with children could be a cause of the problem.

He said: "They do have to be vetted, obviously we have to make sure they are safe to work with children.

"Even if people are quite innocent, they don't want the intrusion of being vetted - they just think it's too much bother."

He added: "Unfortunately, time is getting on, but we are confident we can get someone before Christmas."