YATE Shopping Centre is set to host a 'spectacular' day of festivities as Santa Claus makes his way back to town.

The centre will kick off Yate's annual festivities with a whole host of Christmas activities throughout the walkways of the shopping centre on November 26.

The ever-popular Rock Choir are set to wow the crowds with Christmas chorus as well as performances from the D Day Dollies, the Salvation Army Band and Elton Wrong.

Performances will be on the main stage in front of Santas Grotto, as the team prepare for the traditional main light switch on at 5pm.

James Murden is set to host the day that will also include fairground rides and character meet and greets with Paddington, Elf on shelf, Sonic the Hedgehog, Bluey, Peter Rabbit and Ryan from Ryan's World.

Children will also be able to write and sent their Christmas letters with Postman Pat.

Andrew Lowrey, Yate Shopping Centre manager, said: “We are really looking forward to delivering this spectacular Christmas event for all of the families across the local area.

"As a centre we have had a very positive year for the centre, footfall has been increasing every month and we are now close to seeing the same number of visitors as we were pre-pandemic. 

“The advent of the Christmas period is a great opportunity for people to get out and support their local shops, so we are hoping people will support this big event and our charity, the Jessie May Children's hospice.

"As usual we will be having our annual big light switch on to top off the busy day of free activities.

"We are hoping for continued success in 2023, and having seen strong interest from new businesses wishing to open stores at Yate with several new retailers due to open over November and December, we are hoping for a prosperous new year for all."

Children can visit Santas grotto from November 27 on Saturdays and Sundays, each child will receive free stickers and a certificate on their visit and the centre are suggesting a contribution of £1 per visit tat will go to the Jessie May Children’s Hospice charity.