Widnes Market is helping Father Christmas for the third year in a row.

To make sure all children can deliver letters or see the big man himself, they can pop into Widnes Market with their mum or dad and see him for free.

The grotto will be open every day (including Tuesdays and Sundays) from Friday 13 December until Monday 23 December, between 10.30am and 4pm.

The grotto will not be open Christmas Eve, Santa will be too busy getting ready for the big night of the year, however, Widnes Market itself will be open from 7.30am until 4pm.

Santa and his elves will be there to take care of any letters you may have, or you can bring your camera and take your own pictures. Each child will get a gift from Santa to celebrate the visit.

Halton Council's Executive Board Member for the Physical Environment, Clr Ron Hignett, said: "Why not bring the children to see Santa, and pick up some bargain Christmas presents while you are there?"