SHOPPERS can get in the festive spirit when Father Christmas visits the Mill Gate shopping centre tomorrow.

Admission to the grotto, in Minden Parade, costs £4 which includes a present.

The festive fun also includes a pair of Christmas trees on stilts and face painting.

As part of the Christmas activities, Bury Hospice will be displaying its Festival of Christmas Trees in Union Square.

In addition, Bury Blind Society will hold a gift wrapping service from December 12 until Christmas Eve.

The society will also hold workshops on November 24 and 28 where shoppers can make a dedication card to display on a wishing tree.

Marie Gribben, shopping centre manager, said: “We are looking forward to kicking off our Christmas celebrations on Saturday when Santa opens his grotto. It will be a fantastic start to our busy Christmas period.”

The grotto will be open from 11am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm on Saturdays and 11am to 4pm on Sundays.