...And a nose like a cherry

With the art show, my acting students' showcase, the Ravenous Reader book signing and a modicum of Christmas shopping out of the way, I'm finally able to get stuck into my most challenging thespian role, the one that requires the most patience, fortitude and baby powder - Santy Claus.

This is my fourth year as a Santa for the City's Holiday Magic program. This week heat's been the biggest problem. Think playing Father Christmas is an easy gig? Try wearing Santa pants and an itchy beard in high-60s heat.

Last week, I was beset by cold and heavy winds; but at least then I had an authentic cherry-red nose (or berry blue, at least).