A PUB in Ashley Cross has opened a unique outdoor venue to help spread festive cheer among its locals.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Poole joined local award-winning poet and BBC broadcaster, Paul Canon Harris, to celebrate the opening of ‘Wonky Wonderland’ at The BriT.

Students from the Arts University of Bournemouth played a big role in promoting and designing the venue, while Bournemouth singer Jax Hall performed for the event.

Meanwhile, pub owner Marianne Brown made sure there were plenty of mince pies to go round and kept the spiced cider and mulled wine on tap.

A handful of lucky children were also able to meet Mr and Mrs Christmas in their grotto, an encounter that will be offered to all children in the weekends running up to Christmas.

The pub has recently received its Family Friendly Award, meaning parents can be certain their little ones are in great hands.

The Mayor said: “What a huge achievement this Family Friendly Award is both for The BriT and the whole of Poole.”

The Wonky Wonderland is available for private hire and will be open until January 2.

For details visit thebritpub.com