Police have come under fire after using one of their official riot vans to give Father Christmas a lift as part of a festive parade. Crowds looked on in disbelief when Santa climbed inside the police van  in Aberdare town centre, Cynon Valley, rather than taking his sleigh. Police used the vehicle to give him a taxi ride away from the event in what has been described as an 'ill-judged' stunt. Father Christmas gave a cheery wave to the people of Abadare before being taken away in the police van Father Christmas disappears inside the police van. Police later clarified that he had not been arrested
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Father Christmas was taken away in a police riot van after a festive parade
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Children were left in tears and were worried they would not get any gifts
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Police said Santa had not been arrested and simply needed a ride home
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Parents were furious at 'ill-judged' stunt after taking children to the parade
A spokesman  said: 'We are grateful to South Wales Police for assisting @placeholder during his departure from Aberdare town centre after an amazing Christmas event, which was enjoyed by thousands of people.