Santa has embarked on a festive mission to spread some Christmas cheer across Aberdeenshire, as he made an early visit to children in Alford.
Grampian Transport Museum has opened its doors this winter to welcome the special guest from Lapland and his hard-working elves.
It is the first time the award-winning tourist attraction will remain open for the holiday period while volunteers change the exhibitions and prepare for next year’s season.
A section of the museum has now been transformed into a beautifully decorated Christmas den, where Santa will welcome kids from across the region every weekend.
Among the first ones to meet him last weekend and receive their gifts were Grace, Ava and Finlay Ross from Tarland and Holly Ridell from Alford.
Museum manager Ross McKirdy said they were delighted to step in and help bring the magic of Christmas to children in Donside.
He added: “This will the first time that we have had museum visitors in the winter time so we have opened our tearoom with lovely festive fare for the grown-ups, as well as the children.
“To help with the festive cheer, we have also opened our museum shop for Christmas present ideas, with some special GTM Christmas baubles and cards on offer.
“The elves have built Santa a cosy Christmas den, which looks amazing – and he has said there will be presents for all the boys and girls who come to see him.
“It will be a winter wonderland in the museum this year, and it is so exciting.”
‘Smiles on everyone’s faces makes it worthwhile’
Santa will be in his Alford office every weekend until December 17, and then every day until Christmas Eve.
Children will be able to hand-deliver their wish list, sit with Santa and receive a gift from his specially curated collection.
Families will then have the opportunity to visit the museum’s tearoom where a variety of festive favourites will be on offer from local suppliers.
Museum assistant curator Nick Webb, who has been keeping a close eye on the elves as they worked to prepare the grotto for Santa, was thrilled with the final result.
He said: “Santa’s team of helpers has been very busy here in the museum working all the hours they could when not back in the workshop making their Christmas toys.
“We are all amazed at how good it is and as far as we are concerned Santa can come here every year if he wants.
“The smiles on the faces of everyone made it all worthwhile.”
People can find more information about Santa’s visits and how they can book a slot on the Grampian Transport Museum’s website.
Conversation