Who Killed Santa Claus?

Plot Type: Christmas, non-Sherlock Holmes

It is December, and at Miramar Hall, the Lord of the Manor, Sir Christopher Miramar, is preparing to host his annual Christmas gathering for family and staff. The occasion is made even more special by the return of his son, William Miramar, who is coming home after four years away.

Guests have been invited to attend in fancy dress, but the festive atmosphere is disrupted when Sir Christopher becomes upset over what seems to be a minor issue involving one guest’s choice of costume. Later in the evening, a guest dressed as Santa Claus is discovered unconscious in an upstairs bedroom, and it soon becomes clear that something is seriously wrong.

As questions begin to mount, everyone present appears to have both a reason to be involved and an explanation for their whereabouts. Even the family doctor finds themselves under suspicion. In this light-hearted country house murder mystery, Inspector De’Ath of Scotland Yard must untangle a web of secrets and surprises to uncover the truth behind the question: Who Killed Santa Claus?

The Cast

Edith Boxwell: House keeper to Sir Christopher, and a village gossip. What did she know that might be a motive for murder?

Marie Evry: French mistress of Sir Christopher. Has ambitious plans for his wealth when she moves into Miramar Hall.

Inspector De’Ath: An experienced detective from Scotland Yard.

Lady Julia Miramar: Ex-wife of Sir Christopher and charity worker. No police record, but has a motive for wanting to see harm come to Sir Christopher and his new lover.

Sir Christopher Miramar: Owner of Miramar Hall and chairman of Miramar & Co. It seems that nobody likes this ruthless business man with a vile temper.

Rebecca Miramar: Daughter of Sir Christopher who lives with him at Miramar Hall. A wild ‘tom-boy’ character about to be engaged, but why has she been so depressed recently?

Sebastian Miramar: Oscar’s younger brother and boring business partner. Has he found out something about the family business which gives him a motive for murder?

William Miramar: Son of Oscar. Why has be been absent from the family home for so long? Has he revenge in mind?

Peter Stukely: Lover of Rebecca Miramar but seen as being unsuitable for her since he is only the handyman around the estate and is without status or money.

Doctor John Bull: Solid and dependable police surgeon, but also the family doctor who has been spending more than his income since taking up with a new woman.