Crowds turned out in force on Tuesday night to see Father Christmas arrive by carnival float at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Somerset...

Santa was transported to the garden centre aboard North Petherton Pentathlon Carnival Club’s ‘Wizard of Oz’ themed tractor float.

Norma Moore, General Manager of the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, said: “The evening was absolutely fantastic. The children loved seeing Father Christmas arrive on the ‘Wizard of Oz’ tractor float. It was truly magical.

“We’re thrilled Santa has taken time out of his busy schedule to host his Christmas grottos here at the garden centre.

“Clevedon Brass Band was also here during the evening to welcome Father Christmas and we gave visitors a free mince pie and a complimentary glass of mulled wine.”

Santa’s grotto is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am until 4pm from now until Sunday, December 22.

Children’s Hospice South West is providing Santa with his helpers for the grotto and profits from the grotto will go to the charity.

Entry to Father Christmas’ grotto costs £6 per child and includes a present and a small 20cm Christmas tree.