FATHER Christmas will be making a grand entrance in Wimborne before taking up residence in the Julia's House grotto.

He will arrive in style on Saturday November 29 aboard a horse-drawn dray at noon, ahead of the town’s official Christmas light switch-on later that evening. He will be welcoming visitors until 6pm.

The grotto will be open every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas, including December 20, from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Every child who visits will receive a gift and every visit will support local children with life limiting illnesses.

It costs £6 to meet Santa and all proceeds will go to the Dorset children’s hospice.

There will be festive activities for all the family plus a few surprise guests popping up at the grotto. Last year they included Mickey Mouse, a giant polar bear and a pair of adorable Shetland ponies complete with antlers.

“We are so excited to be back in Wimborne this year, just up the road from our hospice,” said community fundraising manager Lin Hudswell. “It’s such a wonderful town and everyone has been so welcoming.

“Last year was a huge success with more than 350 children visiting Santa. The Wimborne community were thrilled to have a local charity at the heart of their Christmas celebrations.

“We hope lots of families will come along and see Santa and join in the festive fun,” she added.

Wimborne’s Christmas tree and town lights will be switched on at 4.30pm following entertainment throughout The Square from 11am, with carols around the tree between 4pm and 4.45pm.

Following ancient tradition the Wimborne Militia will fire their muskets on the Minster Green at 4.45pm to ward off evil spirits.