SANTA will be bringing his reindeer along to visit Poole town centre this Sunday for the annual Christmas parade.

The Dolphin shopping centre and Poole Town Centre Partnership Santa Parade will travel from Poole Quay at 10am for the festive themed entertainment, which will also feature a marching band, fun characters, chocolate treats and more.

A special appearance will also be made by the Mayor of Poole, Cllr Phil Eades, as well as the cast of Lighthouse’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, including actress, comedienne and impressionist, Debra Stephenson.

It will be themed around Santa’s toy workshop, with stilt walking toy soldiers, dancing elves, and ballerinas, all lining up the streets to welcome Santa to the grotto in the Dolphin shopping centre.

John Grinnell, centre manager, said: “The annual Santa Parade is a popular event for the residents of Poole and really gets the town into the festive spirit.

“This year’s event promises to be another major success and one that helps support all the town centre businesses at the start of this very important trading period.”

Visitors will also be able to enjoy free car parking at the centre all day and there will be festive fun and games for children and their families including a felt hat making activity, treasure trail and Christmas gifts to decorate.

Father Christmas himself will take up residence in his alpine lodge until December 24, where children can visit him at a cost of £4.50 each and receive a wrapped gift chosen by Santa himself.