MORE than 600 children gathered to get a glimpse of Santa and claim a free present.
As reported, the Grimsby Telegraph teamed up with Ramsdens – the region's premier independent toy retailer – to give children in North East Lincolnshire the chance to see the man in red.
Children of all ages cut out three tokens that were printed in the paper and took them to the store in Cleethorpe Road, Grimsby, on Saturday and Sunday to gain access to the festive grotto.
Store manager David Shutt said: "Coming to see Santa is very popular and we are expecting to have had at least 600 people over the weekend.
"We haven't had Father Christmas here for a number of years and it is good to see him back again.
"He is giving out presents to children of all ages and we are glad to have been able to work with the Grimsby Telegraph to make this happen.
"With having a big toy department we thought that we really needed a Santa.
"We have a wide range of presents available and they are already wrapped so they can go straight under the tree for the big day.
"For those who missed Santa this weekend, he will be back in store again every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm until December 23."
Children waited roughly half an hour to step into Santa's Grotto which was filled with lights and Christmas decorations.
Doll-lover Alice Smith, 4, of Humberston, said: "I have come to see Father Christmas and I am very excited.
"I can't wait for Christmas Day.
"I have asked Santa for a Gabriella Doll. I have been very good, so I hope he has one.
"The best bit about Christmas is decorating the tree."
Alice's grandma Christine Shaw of Queen Mary Avenue, Cleethorpes, said: "It is good to see Father Christmas in a proper grotto.
"I also think it is great that Ramsdens is giving away so many presents for the children.
"The store doesn't have to do this, which is why so many people have turned up.
"It really is a good way to start Advent."
