A LIFE-SIZE reindeer donated to an Ipswich school has been sold.The realistic festive decoration was the proud possession of Heathside Special School but the headteacher didn't know what to do with it.

A LIFE-SIZE reindeer donated to an Ipswich school has been sold.

The realistic festive decoration was the proud possession of Heathside Special School but the headteacher didn't know what to do with it.

Odran Doran had been keeping the reindeer in a cupboard because there was nowhere for it to go. He was hoping to use it to raise funds for the school.

The Evening Star stepped in to highlight the plight of the reindeer and it has now been rescued from captivity.

Following the story a lady contacted the school and said buying the reindeer would make her Christmas.

Mr Doran said: "A lady made an enquiry and bought the reindeer.

"She had an antique sleigh and said she had always wanted a reindeer to go with it.

"She loves Christmas and thought it would complete her decorations.

"She paid £300 and was very pleased with the reindeer."

It was suggested that the school auction the reindeer on eBay but Mr Doran said he was unsure how he would get it to the post office.

The decoration was a gift from friend of the school Gwen Skelding who won it in a raffle last Christmas.

She is also a fan of festive decorations but the reindeer was too big for her collection and was being stored in the spare bedroom at her home in Martlesham Heath.