The head elf has been crowned for Santa's special workshop at a shopping centre.

Four children aged seven to 11 attended Brent Cross Elf Factor this weekend to compete for the place as the head elf at their shopping centre's grotto.

The aspiring elves competed for the title spinning the Wheel of Wonder to select a Christmas task, which included gift-wrapping, creating elf names or pricing presents.

Mrs Claus and Santa's helpers Deputy Mayor of Barnet Cllr Val Duschinsky and a Simon Cowell lookalike judged the competition to crown Daniel Moloney the new head elf, winning him £250 of gifts from his wish list.

Daniel said: "I can't believe it! I am so happy to have been crowned the head elf at Brent Cross; it has made the countdown to Christmas even more exciting!"

Tom Nathan, general manager of Brent Cross, said: "The team at Brent Cross really wanted to spread the Christmas cheer and it was great to see so many local children apply to become our C.E.Hohoho.

"We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!"