CAMPAIGNERS from Slad Valley Action Group unveiled their newest recruit who had come all the way from the North Pole to join them in Summer Street on Saturday (December 14).

Taking a quick break from his busy workshop, Father Christmas himself flew into the Five Valleys to throw his weight behind the campaign to protect Baxter’s Field from 112 houses.

Supporters of SVAG presented him with a giant Christmas card which read: “Dear Santa, for Christmas please can you help save the Slad Valley. Can you also help developers build affordable homes on brownfield sites in Stroud?”

Santa responded: “As we run up to Christmas we should be giving people good things, not taking away precious landscapes.

“Everyone who wants a visit from me this Christmas should be sending in their objection to Stroud District Council before the big day.”

Father Christmas also signed SVAG's petition objecting to the new planning application by developer Gladman to build in Baxter’s Field.

“We are delighted that Father Christmas has taken time out of his busy schedule to support the campaign to save this beautiful valley and sign our petition,” said SVAG’s spokesman, Phil Coysh.

“We need everyone to follow his example and send in letters of objection to SDC as soon as possible.”

Objection forms can be found on the SVAG website – www.savesladvalley.org.uk – or people can write to Stroud District Planning Office, Ebley Mill, Westward Rd, Stroud GL5 4UB quoting ref S.13.2451/OUT. Objectors must give their full name and address.