A North Pole winter woodland has arrived in Redruth.

Redruth Town Council launched its free Christmas Grotto on Saturday. 

Designed and built by the council's staff, the Grotto at Redruth Community Centre on Foundry Row will be open again from 10am to 3pm next Saturday, December 7, and the following Saturday, December 14.

Children will have the chance to meet Father Christmas and his elves and share their Christmas wishes.

Thanks to generous sponsorship from Skylite Associates and Relyon Services Ltd, each child will leave with a special present.

The Community Centre will also have craft workshops, a market, and refreshments.

Alice Lamming, Redruth Town Council's events and marketing manager, said: "We are thrilled to announce the Christmas Grotto dates as the whole team have been working hard to make it a truly memorable and magical experience for children.

"We are very grateful to all our volunteers who will be helping at the Grotto and of course Father Christmas who is keen to bring his reindeer to Redruth to meet all the town's children."

There is no need to book for the Grotto, and attendance is free.

All donations collected will benefit the local charity, Penhaligon’s Friends.

The Christmas Grotto launched as part of the Redruth in Lights festival, which featured a festive market, carols, the traditional illumination of the Christmas lights, and the Redruth Wassail.

Two more festive Saturdays will follow on the next two Saturday with markets, live music, and entertainment throughout the town.

Free parking will be available on these dates, with support from Wales & West Utilities and Cornwall Council.

Redruth town mayor, councillor Stephen Barnes, said: "Redruth’s Christmas Grotto has become a well-loved tradition for families in the town as it really allows them to experience the joy and magic of the festive season.

"Redruth is really going to sparkle this Christmas with all the great activities that will be happening."