The festive season begins at Trevena Cross in Breage this weekend as the garden centre’s charity fundraising Santa’s Grotto opens its doors for the first time.

The charitable Grotto (£7.50 per child, including gift) will be joined by a Christmas market at weekends, with around 50 traders showcasing their wares, supported by musical accompaniment from the bandstand.

Trevena Cross owner Graham Jeffery said: “There has been a big build up to this weekend. The team have been working so hard behind closed doors to create something that will hopefully not only wow our visitors, but will also help raise thousands of pounds for this year’s chosen charities, The Cove Macmillan Support Centre, Cornwall Air Ambulance and other local community causes.

"With the continued support of the Rotary Club of Helston-Lizard, we’d love to think it’s possible to raise as much money as last year – over £9,000."

The non-ticketed grotto opens its doors for the first time at 10am this Saturday, (November 30), and thereafter will be open 10am-4pm every weekend day leading up to Christmas.

It will also be open for twilight Santa visits during late opening Thursdays from 3-8pm on December 5, 12 and 19.

It is an undercover event, with free parking, free entry and wheelchair/buggy access across the site.

Plus it offers the ideal opportunity to pick up the all-important Christmas tree – which at Trevena Cross includes the popular non-drop, cut Nordmann Fir (up to six feet tall) for only £25 each.

Visit trevenacross.co.uk for full details of the events taking place at the garden centre during the festive season, or visit their facebook page.