This is the hilarious moment a prankster passed wind inside a Santa mascot's costume.

Hiroshi Monariza targeted his bottom at the air vent of the inflatable suit, causing the worker inside to be engulfed by the unpleasant smell in Tokyo, Japan, on December 24.

Footage shows the Father Christmas character standing in front of the bright trees when Hiroshi bent over with his backside facing the small hole and emitted a loud blast of gas.

This prompted the mascot to look back, staring at him, before inhaling the horrid odour. The worker then attempted to remove the inflatable costume and even fell to the ground while the prankster laughed.

Moments later, the mascot chased after him, but he was not caught, as it was unable to run freely.

Hiroshi said: 'I feel naughty this year, so I gave Santa a booming present. I think he liked it.'