WORLD'S SANTA CLAUSES COMPETE IN SWEDEN

HELSINKI, November 22 (RIA Novosti) - The town Hjellivare, in Sweden's north, was festive all through last weekend, November 19 through 21, with a world competition of Santa Clauses and Father Frosts. Contestants from Russia, Estonia, Great Britain and Spain came on top, reports the games steering committee. The Russian won a reindeer race, the Estonian a tobogganing race, the Briton was the most agile in climbing down and up a fireplace chimney, and the Spaniard best for porridge eating.

The winners got each a miniature felt boot prize. There were no losers in the games, for that matter-each received an award and a gift.

Roughly fifty Santa Clauses were competing to represent ten countries-Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, and the UK.

The games came as a picturesque chance to bring together the many ethnic customs and traditions of Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The guests were offered versatile winter entertainment-a trip to a reindeer farm, a Christmas fete with coffee and cookies, and sleigh and toboggan rides in the contestants' company. Kids were delighted to mix with so many Santas, and listened to Christmas tales with bated breath.

An accompanying music festival offered a grand choice of carols and Santa-rock pieces. There were torch processions, games, skating, skiing and tobogganing those unforgettable days.