SANTA Claus appears to have swapped his reindeer and sleigh for a taxi this year.

One cab firm has promised customers that if their taxi driver turns up dressed as Father Christmas, the journey is free.

The service is being offered by Oxford's 001 Taxis, which has also said it will not raise its tariffs on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, as it normally would, as a reward for customers who have had what it describes as ‘an extremely tough year’.

Eddie Measey, who is head of development at 001, said: “We’ve been having discussions in the office recently about Christmas tariffs.

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"It goes without saying it has been an extremely tough year for people in many ways.

"Traditionally we would have higher tariffs for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, but this year we decided we would keep the tariffs standard.

Oxford Mail:

"It won't be life-changing for anyone, but we are trying to do our little bit to help people out there who do need to travel this Christmas.

"People who want to meet their family in their bubble will now be able to do it cheaper.

"You can travel 2 miles on Christmas Day for five pounds - that goes for Boxing Day as well.

"We are just trying to do our bit this year."

001 taxis have been operating for over 40 years, and it takes customers all over Oxfordshire.

The service operates 365 days a year.

Oxford Mail:

Mr Measey added: "We are going to have a Father Christmas out and about in one of our taxis this year.

"If you are lucky to be picked up by Father Christmas, you won't have to pay your taxi charge for your journey.

"You never know, you might be lucky."

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You can book a taxi with 001 by calling 01865 240000 or visiting www.001taxis.com.

The company is based in New Inn Yard, 108 St Aldate's, Oxford.