Rankin Inlet (Dec 15/04) - The sweet sound of voices lifted up in praise of the season could be heard outside the Rankin Inlet airport this past week as old St. Nicholas touched down for his annual visit to the community.

The appearance was a special one, as 2004 marked the 20th anniversary of the jolly old elf's partnership with Canadian North for Santa's Run across the NWT and Nunavut.

Santa touched down in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet and Cambridge Bay for the anniversary trip around Nunavut.

Canadian North regional manager Randy Miller said he never tires of seeing hundreds of kids awaiting Santa's arrival.

He said this is a project Canadian North takes great pride in delivering every year -- with the help of the big guy, of course.

"The turn-out in Rankin never ceases to amaze me," said Miller.

"The people who travel with Santa always marvel at the number of kids who come out to meet him.

"It's quite gratifying to see the kids enjoy Santa's visit so much every year."

Volunteers packed 3,500 goody bags with candy and colouring sheets for the 2004 edition of Santa's Run. And, while there were plenty of sweet treats to go around, Santa himself was looking rather trim.

"Oh my, yes, yes, Mrs. Claus put her boot down this year," said Santa, his eyes twinkling and belly still shaking as he laughed.

"She's had Rudolph keep an eye on me around the reindeer and the elves hide all the sweets when they see me coming into the workshop.

"Prancer has even said Santa's sleigh will be a lot easier to pull this year. Ho, ho, ho!"

Miller said Santa didn't have quite as much time on the ground this visit as in years past, but thanks to the efforts of local volunteers, not a single child went away disappointed.

"I'd say about 600 kids showed up this year and I got a lot of help from some of the Girl Guides, as well as workers from the health centre and the friendship centre.

"It's great to see that kind of effort on behalf of the kids because that's what Santa's visit is all about."