A vicar has apologised after telling a group of 10 and 11-year-old school children that Father Christmas is not real, leading some pupils to sob.

The incident took place during a Religious Education lesson at Lee-on-the-Solent Junior School in Hampshire, where Rev Dr Paul Chamberlain made the comments about Santa's existence.

One parent called the vicar’s remarks "absolutely disgusting", while another said her daughter believed the vicar had “lost the plot". 

The Anglican Diocese of Portsmouth acknowledged that it was an "error of judgment" and that Rev Chamberlain should not have made those statements.

A 10-year-old pupil recalled that some children "gasped" when they were told that parents eat the cookies left out for Santa.

Following the incident, Rev Chamberlain apologised to the school, parents, and children.

The headteacher also sent a letter to all parents explaining the situation.