The Garden Centre filled quite rapidly on Saturday morning with children and families all waiting to get a glimpse of their favourite man, Santa, and he didn’t disappoint.

Arriving at 11am, Santa took his two friends along to help with the celebrations, Kevin the Minion and a Stormtrooper from “Star Wars”!

Yoda even put in a surprise appearance throughout both days.

Fun and games were had by all, there was a treasure hunt with clues for the children to solve, cookie decorating, hook a duck and a colouring competition and all with Kevin the Minion and the Stormtrooper to help.

Lots of photo opportunities for the children with the characters was followed by an outdoor barbecue serving hot dogs, burgers, mince pies and mulled wine to keep everyone warm!

Santa opened his Grotto on both days and all the children were delighted to meet the man himself and talk to him about their wishes for this Christmas.

Santa will be in his Grotto every weekend in December from 11am to 4pm. To avoid disappointment, book your children in by calling 01363 82438.

Bow Garden and Aquatic Centre’s Christmas Shop is bigger and better than ever, with a whole host of Christmas decorations to make every home feel extra special this Christmas.

Don’t forget they have a pre-order service for wreaths, table decorations and garlands and Christmas trees have arrived on site for all you early birds.

Talking of birds, bronze hand-reared turkey or goose from a local farm are available to pre order so you are guaranteed a tasty treat on Christmas day!

If you can’t wait until then for a taste of turkey book yourself into Bow Garden Centre’s Country Coffee Shop for a Christmas meal, served on Thursdays and Sundays throughout December or any day for parties of eight or more when booked in advance.

With expanded gift and pet departments and a whole range of aquariums from small starter tanks for children right through to larger tropical and marine tanks – you are sure to find that perfect gift for Christmas.