An emergency was declared in the quiet seaside town of Formby, Merseyside, after a reindeer bolted from a Christmas event, sparking a frantic search by police, Royal Marines, and the coastguard.
Massive Search Hunt Across Beach and Dunes
The escaped reindeer, sporting huge antlers, was first spotted by officers but vanished by evening. Panic set in amid fears the animal could wander into the River Mersey or onto roads, putting itself in grave danger.
Teams from Southport Offshore Rescue Trust, equipped with thermal binoculars, joined forces with HM Coastguard from Southport and Crosby to track the fugitive across the beach and sand dunes.
“Although capture proved difficult, the team successfully shepherded the animal into the sand dunes at Altcar Rifle Range, where a police drone maintained watch,” the rescue crew said.
Heroic Effort Saves Christmas
Eventually, the reindeer calmed down and a vet, with support from Royal Marines, safely secured the creature—much to the relief of locals. It’s believed the runaway had escaped from Santa’s Enchanted Forest attraction in Formby.
One witness told Formby Bubble:
“We thought it was a stag at first, but then a National Trust ranger asked if we’d seen a real reindeer. We pointed them north up the beach. Then the police arrived—really worried about it getting onto the road.”
Local residents praised the rescue effort, with one commenting, “Well done everyone! At first glance I thought there was a glow in the dark reindeer wandering around. My Christmas spirit soared a little.”
Another quipped: “Someone have a word with Santa—he needs to keep his lads under control for another couple of weeks.”
Christmas Saved Thanks to Multi-Agency Teamwork
“Christmas is saved thanks to some great work from multiple agencies,” the rescue team added, wrapping up a heartwarming story amid festive chaos.
