THE COUNTDOWN to Christmas has begun with Santa set to make his big arrival at Notcutts Rivendell Garden Centre on Sunday.

Children will have a chance to see Santa arrive in style by horse and carriage, where he will officially open the garden centre’s magical grotto and celebrate the start of all festive activities at Notcutts near Great Sankey this season.

From Sunday, children can enjoy a memorable visit to Santa’s enchanted winter grotto at Notcutts, where they will meet Santa himself and receive a special gift. For a truly magical experience this Christmas, children can also join Santa for a fun-filled breakfast or tasty tea in the Notcutts restaurant.

Not forgetting the furry members of the family, Notcutts Rivendell on Mill Lane will once again be opening their grotto to offer a tail-wagging Christmas treat for dogs of all shapes and sizes. On select days throughout the season, owners can take their treasured pets for an exciting Santa Paws visit for festive fuss, with a gift to take home too.

David Quigley, general manager at Notcutts Rivendell, said: “Christmas is a magical time of year at Notcutts and, while our garden centre is glittering with lights and decorations, we also have a host of festive activities for the whole family to enjoy all season.

"Starting with Santa’s big arrival on Sunday, the free event is a fantastic way to get into the Christmas spirit. We hope lots of local families will head down to Notcutts to celebrate the magic with us.”

To avoid disappointment, Notcutts recommend booking all festive activities such as their grotto and breakfast or tea with Santa experiences in advance.

Christmas meals are advised to be booked in advance.

To find out more or to book, visit www.notcutts.co.uk/christmas-events or call the garden centre on 0151 4232638.