Families and children have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas at The Lanes in Carlisle.

Father Christmas and his elves will be getting ready to meet local children who have been waiting all year for this special day.

The Grotto will open its doors at 11am this Saturday, November 25 and it will remain open on Saturdays and Sundays up to Christmas weekend when it will be open on Friday 22, and Saturday, December 23.  

Raising money for Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw Children’s Hospice there is a recommended donation of £3 per child which will be donated in its entirety to the local charities, and every child will receive a gift from Santa.  

Susan Young, centre manager at The Lanes said: “We’re getting really excited for Christmas, it’s such a popular time of year for all our visitors.

"The Lanes will have a wonderful atmosphere with all the community performers joining us, and we’ve hoping lots of supporters and families will come down to watch.

"And, it goes without saying that The Grotto will be a hit with youngsters, who have been waiting all year to meet the big man himself.”