Urgent!! Rudolph has escaped from Formby and last seen heading NORTH… possibly aiming for the North Pole!

It may sound like a festive joke — but this is absolutely NOT a hoax. A real reindeer has escaped from Santa’s Forest and was last spotted dashing through the dunes at Formby beach, heading north at speed (clearly trying to clock in early for Christmas Eve!).

Merseyside Police, the National Trust and the RSPCA are currently out searching the coastline to safely locate and secure the reindeer. Officers are concerned it may wander towards local roads, which could cause a serious accident.

A resident who saw it said: “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 in the direction it went — literally trotting north up the beach. Then the police arrived. They’re really worried about it getting onto the road.”

Funny as it sounds, this situation is serious.

The reindeer needs to be found quickly for everyone’s safety.

If you see it, call 999 immediately and give the exact location. Please do not approach it.

We’ll keep you updated with any developments. Stay safe — and keep your eyes peeled for stray sleigh bells.