CROWNGATE is getting into the Christmas spirit ahead of a busy season of shopping.

Santa will start meeting children at a grotto in the city's Friary Walk complex next month.

Crowngate Shopping Centre is combining this year's Christmas antics with its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Erica Burlace, Crowngate manager, said: "Christmas in Crowngate will be extra magical this year, as we are celebrating sharing 25 years of this special time with you all.

"Starting with the arrival of Father Christmas on the 26 November at 12.30pm on Worcester High Street and leading to his grotto in Crowngate.

"Father Christmas will take residence in his grotto every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. We also have free elf Workshops to keep the children busy.

"Our 70 stores are all getting ready to give you a warm welcome and offer their expertise in finding the gifts you need for friends and family.

"It’s even easier if you park in Crowngate. Then meet friends for food and drink in the unique Crowngate Kitchen."

Spokesman Caroline Leah said: "There’s lots of festive fun taking place to get you in the spirit of the season.

"In 2017 we’re celebrating 25 years of Crowngate which means 25 years of sharing Christmas with Worcester.

"Head down to Crowngate with the family to get your gift shopping all wrapped up across our 70 stores which include leading brands such as New Look, Iceland, House of Fraser, Jojo Maman Bebe.

"Or meet friends for food and drink in Crowngate Kitchen.

"Help us celebrate 25 wonderful years with a visit Santa in his grotto, and meet his little helpers at our free elf workshops."

Father Christmas will hold his first grotto in Friary Walk on Sunday, November 26 from 10am to 4.30pm.

He will then be at the centre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday - between 10am and 3.30pm - until Christmas Day.

Free elf workshops will also take place at the centre from Monday, December 18, to Sunday, December 24.

Children will get the chance to write and post letters to Santa on Monday, play games on Tuesday, make gingerbread on Wednesday, listen to stories on Thursday, wrap up presents on Friday, build toys on Saturday and design pillow cases on Christmas Eve.

These workshops will take place from 11am and 4pm.

To find out more about Crowngate visit http://bit.ly/2yLyfUk