A family has admitted a life-size reindeer outside a New Quay restaurant was accidentally damaged on New Year’s Day by their child.

They have also apologised to the owners of the Bosun’s Locker and made a donation to charity.

Dyfed-Powys Police say they have examined CCTV footage which shows a child accidentally knocking the reindeer over and have confirmed they are no longer classifying the matter as a crime.

Mrs Didcote said she “broke down and wept” on discovering the damage to the reindeer outside the Bosun’s Locker in Glanmor Terrace.

She said the reindeer’s antlers and ears were snapped off late on Friday afternoon.

“Those reindeer are such a big part of Christmas here in New Quay and Brian has become known as Father Christmas. Even kids who are now teenagers still turn up to have their photos taken with the reindeer and make a donation to the charity.

“The reindeer are two, heavy-duty life-sized models made of cast resin and costing £600 apiece. They’re not cheap but pretty solid and built for outside weather.

“We’re really gutted about this because they are a fund-raising tool. Every year the restaurant is done out like a grotto and everyone loves it.