CAN’T wait for Christmas?

There may be more than 80 days to December 25 but a Dorset garden centre will be getting into the festive spirit from this weekend.

Wimborne Garden Centre in Wimborne Road West is opening its Christmas department on Saturday, October 8.

The opening of the Christmas department is described as one of the centre’s most “highly anticipated” events of the year and is visited by thousands of people in the build-up to December 25.

Rebecca Bartlett, centre manager at Wimborne Garden Centre, said: "We are all excited for customers to see the department this year.

"The team have been amazing, working day and night throughout September to create something extraordinary.

"This year, we open in early October to meet our customers' demand, and I think they will be blown away by what the team have created this year. It is a truly magical winter wonderland."

Meanwhile, The Gardeners Retreat Restaurant will be offering a range of festive treats leading up to Christmas.

Christmas dinners are served from October, and people can also book tables now for Christmas parties and festive afternoon teas.

Gemma, restaurant manager at Wimborne Garden Centre, said: "We really look forward to this time of year.

“Welcoming customers through our doors and being part of their Christmas celebrations is a joy for all the team here."

Real Christmas trees will be available to purchase at the centre in November.