Rotherham mum's creative Elf on the Shelf idea sees naughty elves breaking Covid-19 lockdown measures

For those who don't know, Elf On The Shelf sees one of Santa's little helpers hide in the home to keep a sneaky eye on children so they can determine whether they belong on the naughty or nice list – with parents moving the Elf into a different place every day on the lead up to Christmas.

And this year Toni Connell, from Whiston, has come up with an ingenious hiding place for her pesky elves, with their latest bit of late-night mischief taking on a Covid-inspired twist.

With lots of old carboard boxes around the home from Christmas shopping, the mum-of-11 said she began creating some DJ decks, speakers and even a dancefloor for an elf party – something which, under current restrictions, would not be allowed to take place.

Toni, whose children range are aged between 24 to four-years-old, said: "We call the elf ‘Snitchy’ and they’re always asking when he’s coming – they can’t wait for this time of year, especially the youngest three. I just thought, well we aren’t allowed to have a party so the elf could have a party in lockdown.

"I have been doing elf on the shelf for my kids, the amazement on their faces in a morning is well worth the hard work I put in to it. I was up till 5am this morning doing this one.”

In pictures taken by Toni, three of the elves can even be seen cheekily enjoying a tipple while they watch Santa, who has taken on the role of DJ.

Two more elves are enjoying themselves on the dancefloor surrounded by disco lights and balloons.

After discovering the scene in the morning, Toni says her children were eager to join the elves in their festivities.

"They were so excited, especially because the disco lights were on,” she added. “They were asking to put music on so they could have a dance. They come running upstairs every day saying ‘look what he’s done’ – they absolutely love it.

“It seems to get bigger every year the things I come up with, once I get going that’s it!”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.