Why did Buddy the reindeer escape from Santa's Enchanted Forest?

Buddy became overexcited and jumped over the enclosure during the Christmas event.

Which emergency services helped find Buddy the reindeer in Formby?

Merseyside Police, armed police officers, the Royal Marines, and the coastguard were involved in the search.

Where was Buddy the reindeer found after his escape?

Buddy was found asleep in the sand dunes on Formby Beach, near where he went missing.

Home / Lifestyle / Reindeer Escape Sparks Major Christmas Rescue Operation

Reindeer Escape Sparks Major Christmas Rescue Operation

7 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A reindeer named Buddy escaped during a Christmas event in Formby, Merseyside.
Emergency services, including armed police and Royal Marines, assisted in the search.
Buddy was found asleep in sand dunes on Formby Beach the following morning.

Reindeer Escape Sparks Major Christmas Rescue Operation

A reindeer's unexpected escape from a Christmas event in Formby, Merseyside, triggered a large-scale search operation.

The animal, known as Buddy, fled from Santa's Enchanted Forest on Saturday afternoon, prompting calls to emergency services. The operation involved armed police officers and members of the Royal Marines, with the coastguard assisting in tracking the animal for fear it might wander into a nearby river.

Buddy was located in the early hours of Sunday morning, found resting in sand dunes on Formby Beach. A veterinarian administered sedatives with assistance from the Royal Marines before Buddy was safely transported back to his stable. His owners confirmed he is now safe and resting in north Wales.