CHILDREN at a Worcester shopping centre were given a festive treat with a visit to Santa's grotto.

Father Christmas was on hand in the Crowngate complex to listen to gift requests from a massive queue of youngsters over the weekend.

Trevor Lloyd-Adams, Crowngate manager, said crowds of children flocked to see their hero arrive in a white Rolls Royce, escorted by Swan Theatre actors rehearsing for A Christmas Carol.

"The procession started off from the Cathedral roundabout at 10.30am, but it took him 30 minutes to get to the centre," he added.

"That was because there were so many people who had turned out to see him.

"I've been doing this for nine years, and the reaction from the children this year was undoubtedly the best ever."

Santa Claus will be working from now until Christmas Eve at the grotto in Friar Square, in a space provided by Caf Vienna.

n Seen with Santa in the Crowngate Centre are Kady Martens, Rebecca Wynne and Kirsty Martens.

Picture by James Watkins 48009501