January is usually when Santa Claus can let his hair down and relax.

A man legally named Santa Claus was arrested for drinking under influence in Idaho when he was spotted driving the wrong way.

Mr Claus, 67, was stopped by the police in Post Falls. He said he was “confused”and not familiar with the local streets, as reported by WBIR.com.

Mr Claus said he had spent the afternoon drinking beer in a local bar then proceeded to drive the wrong way down the street.

Police noted the smell of alcohol on his breath and that he struggled to retain his balance, but noted that Mr Claus was “co-operative” throughout.

The charge has been reduced to misdemeanor and reckless driving when he appeared in court on Friday.