THERE was a big crowd of fans waiting for Santa to make his grand entrance at Squire’s Garden Centre in Milford – and to have their photo taken with him for free.

Father Christmas caused quite a stir by opting to arrive not on his traditional sleigh, but in a large red fire engine.

Ricky Bowness, Squire’s manager, said: “It was fantastic to see so many children meeting Santa, and the fire engine was a big hit.

“Santa came to Squire’s to open his magical Christmas Grotto, and we are donating £1 from every visit to The Meath epilepsy charity in Godalming to support the great work they do.”

Children are invited to meet Santa in his magical grotto and receive an early Christmas present.

Santa’s Grotto at Squire’s in Milford is open every weekend, plus every day from Monday, December 16 until Christmas Eve. Tickets cost £6 per child, with £1 from every ticket donated to The Meath. There’s no need to book, simply turn up. For full opening times go to www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk