A CELEBRITY chef will launch this year’s Christmas Grotto at Old Down Estate near Thornbury.

Dean Edwards, a regular on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, will launch the annual event which will be celebrated with free entry to the country park all day on Sunday, November 23.

Father Christmas will arrive at The Estate at 12pm, to the sound of Bristol Brass Band, whilst Dean will be on hand to decorate Christmas biscuits with children.

There will also be a range of arts and crafts activities, a Christmas trail around The Country Park, various games and of course all of the park favourites including farm animals, Pet’s Corner, the adventure playground and the giant jumping pillow.

Carly Rudrum-Baker, head of business at Old Down Estate said, “We’re really excited about the first ever Santa’s Grotto at our Country Park so we are opening our doors for free! Santa has made his home in our cosy Yurt, complete with real log fire, in our enchanted fairy-lit forest – it’s really magical.”

The Grotto is open on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and every day from 17th – 24th December from 12-6pm. Booking is essential. Every child will be given a gift and free entry to the park. To book call 01454 414081.