Christmas cheer has come to Gloucester's historic docks this month as Gloucester Boat Hire launched what's probably the UK's first-ever floating sleigh.

In fantastic festive fun for the entire family, your very own Christmas elf will skipper the present-laden sleigh-boat, with the assistance of two luminous reindeers.

On a 15-minute trip along the canal, passengers can take in the sights of Llanthony Bridge and SULA lightship, as they truly get into the spirit of the season and connect with the great outdoors.

This year Santa is going green: Gloucester Boat Hire's all-electric sleigh-boat is charged primarily by solar panels. As well as preserving the ice around Santa's workshop in Lapland, using electric power ensures that a noisy and smelly engine won't put a dampener on the festive fun.

Santa's sleigh-boat seats up to six adults and as many as seven children with one adult.

The sleigh-boat is situated on the Barge Arm in the Quays, opposite the National Waterways Museum.

Jack Merrett, Captain at Gloucester Boat Hire, said of the new venture: "I'm excited to be bringing festive fun to Gloucester's docks in the run-up to Christmas. If you're looking for a quick 15-minute break between shopping to keep the kids entertained, there's no better ride than Santa's electric sleigh-boat."

Sleigh-boat rides are being offered throughout December (except Christmas Day) and until January 6, from 1pm-8pm daily. Lifejackets are provided.

A 15-minute ride costs £5 per person, and bookings can be made online through Gloucester Boat Hire's website  or in person.