A POPULAR figure is preparing to return to Hare Hatch later this month – and this time he’s plastic-free.
After a couple of years off, Father Christmas is preparing to open his eco-friendly grotto at Hare Hatch Sheeplands plant nursery.
His return will take place from 11am on Saturday, November 30, with a special arrival ceremony.
And, being Santa, he’s got a heart of gold, and his grotto will raise funds for local charities.
It’s part of a packed festive season at the plant nursery.
Andy Dicks from Sheeplands said: “Santa has already popped into Sheeplands for a visit and to confirm that he plans to set up a plastic-free grotto and invite youngsters to have breakfast with him as he has done in the past.
“Once again his friends from the Rotary Club of Maiden Erlegh will be helping him, with the intention of raising money for local charities such as Twyford Charities Together, the Alexander Devine Hospice and Yeldall Manor.”
And Sheeplands is planning to stock Christmas trees and decorations once again, with some special shopping events in the run-up to the big day.
“We have arranged what I am calling evenings of indulgence with some really good food, wine and drinks plus a party with Mother Christmas and a choir to entertain visitors,” Mr Dicks explained.
“We invite customers and others to check out the details on our web site.
“Santa’s Christmas visit is another sign of the way that Sheeplands is rebuilding after planning difficulties and we are so pleased that he has decided to be with us again this year.”