Santa needs to lose weight, say Spanish children

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2007

MADRID (AFP) — Spanish children think Santa Claus is "too fat" and should go on a diet, and that he should ditch his sleigh for a 4X4 or a motorcycle.

The opinions are based on an Internet poll of 4,000 children aged four to 12 by a children's television channel, Jetix.

It said 53 percent of them think Father Christmas is "too fat," and 59 percent believe he should eat better to lose weight, or go to the gym (19 percent.)

Many also think that his means of transport is outdated, as a sleigh is too slow for delivering presents.

A total of 35 percent think he should change it for a 4X4 and 31 percent for a motorcycle.

But they are ready to keep at least one Christmas tradition -- his big red coat. Only 21 percent of them would like him to come...