LETTERS to Santa, crafts, singing, gift wrapping and free hot drinks are among the activities that shoppers in Ashton-under-Lyne can expect in the coming weeks.
Ladysmith Shopping Centre is going all out to give visitors what it describes as a ‘magical experience’ during the festive season.
Coinciding with the town’s Christmas light switch-on event, this Saturday, November 23, sees the launch of a special ‘North Pole Post Box’ where children can post letters directly to none other than Santa himself.
A letter template can be downloaded on Ladysmith’s website here and every child who posts a letter before December 18 will receive a personalised reply.
Local families can also engage their creativity during a three-week series of interactive workshops at ‘Elf School’.
Children can create heartfelt messages to Santa on Saturday, November 30, before families can craft festive wreaths to take home on Saturday, December 7, and there will be wooden tree decoration crafting on Saturday, December 14.
Youngsters taking part in the workshops will receive an ‘Elf HQ’ loyalty card, stamped after each session so those who complete all three will earn a gift and a certificate.
Adding even more festive cheer on November 30 will be two elves, who will roam the centre offering free hot drinks to shoppers – subject to availability.
Ladysmith bosses are also approaching local singing groups and choirs to perform during event days, as a way of enhancing the Christmas atmosphere.
For last-minute shoppers, the centre will host a special gift-wrapping service on December 21 where staff will be on hand to wrap presents. Optional donations will also be collected on the day for the centre’s charity of the year, which is Willow Wood Hospice.
The Christmas activities are free to attend.