TOWN Hall 'scrooges' have stopped Santa Claus visiting a centre for adults with learning difficulties.
Residents at the Bondfield Centre, Wombwell are 'too old' to be visited by Santa even though many of them have a much younger mental age.
Santa, who wishes to remain anonymous, said he was shocked to hear that his annual visit was not 'age appropriate'.
He said: "I have always visited the centre and taken presents for all the residents. It is extremely disappointing that this year I am not able to go especially when they enjoy Christmas just as much as the next person.
"It is a shame for me personally as it was such a delight to see their faces light up whenever I visited them."
Spokesman Coun David Bostwick, said: “We firmly believe in treating adults with learning disabilities like adults, not like children, and allowing them to live an ordinary life within communities.
"What we are aiming for is to include them within society as equal, contributing, valued members of the adult population and treating them with the respect they deserve.
“Instead of the standard Santa Claus visit, which undermines our more adult-orientated philosophy, we will be involving service users in a number of smaller events and outings within local communities to celebrate the festive season."
