A reindeer on the run from a Christmas parade brought festive festivities to a chaotic halt in Southport, sparking a major search and rescue operation.
The Great Reindeer Escape
The festive fugitive made its break for freedom during a local Christmas parade, disappearing into the afternoon. The incident prompted a call to the Southport Offshore Rescue Trust at 4.43pm on November 30, 2025, after the animal had been missing for several hours.
Initial sightings suggested the reindeer was heading north towards the sand dunes of Formby Beach in Liverpool. One local resident recounted the surreal moment to reporters, stating they initially mistook the animal for a stag. "Then a National Trust ranger asked if we’d seen a real reindeer!" the witness said. "We pointed them in the direction it went – literally trotting north up the beach."
The Search on the Sands
Concerns for public safety and the animal's welfare quickly mounted. "Then the police arrived. They’re really worried about it getting onto the road," the resident added. Merseyside Police joined the pursuit, tracking the reindeer across the expansive dunes.
As daylight faded, the search became more challenging, and police eventually lost sight of the animal. However, the mission was far from over. Equipped with thermal binoculars, the dedicated crew from the Southport Offshore Rescue Trust managed to locate the pesky reindeer on the sands of Formby Beach.
A Secure Recovery
With the reindeer located, a coordinated effort began to safely secure it. Police drones monitored the operation from overhead as the animal was carefully herded into the dunes at Altcar Rifle Range.
Once the reindeer was settled and contained, a final phase was set in motion. A vet, supported by the Royal Marines, successfully and securely recovered the animal, bringing the unusual and dramatic incident to a safe conclusion.
