The Mayor welcomes Santa to Fareham

A host of Christmas competitions is launched

The Mayor paid a special visit to Santa’s Snow White Grotto in Fareham Shopping Centre last week after viewing the Centre’s Christmas lights and festive displays. Cllr Mrs Ruth Godrich accompanied Centre Manager Pam Gillard through the Centre and marvelled at the snowy tableaux brimming with lifelike animals and festive characters. In the displays outside Costa Coffee and outside Bhs there stands a Wishing Well. All donations made will be given to the Centre’s nominated charity, RSPCA’s Stubbington Ark. Once the Mayor had seen the displays and glittering decorations which adorn the Centre, she made her way to the Grotto, opposite Millets, and cut the ribbon to declare it officially open. The Grotto, which has an enchanting Snow White theme this year, is run by and for Girlguiding Hampshire East who are currently celebrating their Centenary. Jacqui Dixon, the County Commissioner for Girlguiding Hampshire East, joined the Mayor on her visit and girls from the Fareham Division have been getting into the Christmas spirit by dressing up in colourful elf costumes and helping Santa to welcome the children who visit him. Visitors to Santa will receive a gift and can also collect a colouring competition form and Santa Sticker sheet for a double chance to win some exciting Christmas prizes, including a family ticket to Ferneham Hall’s Pantomime, Snow White and a family day pass to Butlins, courtesy of Thomas Cook. Colouring forms are also available from around the Centre The Grotto is now open every Thursday evening and on weekends in the run up to Christmas. It is also open every day during Christmas week. For grotto opening times, entry prices and details about all the other competitions and Christmassy goings-on throughout December, pick up a leaflet in the Centre or visit www.farehamshopping.com -Ends- Words: 308 Images: The Mayor, Cllr Mrs Ruth Godrich, Jacqui Dixon (County Commissioner for Girlguiding Hampshire East), Centre Manager Pam Gillard and several Girl Guides follow Santa around the Centre, and officially open his Snow White Grotto Notes to the Editor For further editorial information about Fareham Shopping Centre please contact Colin Salt at Logical Creative Marketing on 0845 345 6969 or email colins@lcm.co.uk To contact the Centre Manager direct call Pam Gillard on 01329 822506. Fareham Shopping Centre is located on the south coast and has over 80 big name stores such as Marks & Spencer, Bhs, Boots and Monsoon and a variety of restaurants and cafes on offer. Visit our website for further details on www.farehamshopping.com.