The ever popular Santa’s Grotto and Elf School are still open for Christmas at intu Merry Hill

Santa is keeping busy in the run-up the Christmas at intu Merry Hill, where his Grotto has seen over 40 children visiting every hour.

The centre's Grotto and Elf School is open from 10.00am until 9.00pm Monday to Wednesday and on Christmas Eve from 9.00am until 4.00pm. Last entry is one hour before the Grotto closes.

Entry to the attraction, situated on the Upper Mall next to Debenhams, costs £6.00 per child which gives access to the Elf School as well as a gift from Santa himself.

Rob Pickersgill, marketing manager at intu Merry Hill, said; “Santa’s Grotto is extremely popular again this year and busy days, such as Saturday, sold out well in advance.

"Despite being open since November 13th and now welcoming around 40 children every hour, Santa has asked everyone to book in advance if they can – we don’t want to disappoint anyone! He’ll be working up until 4.00pm Christmas Eve before setting off for the big night.”

Parents still wanting to take youngsters to visit Mr Claus are asked to book as soon as possible at intu.co.uk/merryhill, or by visiting customer services on the centre's lower mall by River Island.