We may be having a heatwave, but Dudley Zoo are already on the look out for a Father Christmas to join their Winter Wonderland Grotto!

Assistant Curator, Jay Haywood, has started the search from the attractions very own beach, 'Ow Bin Ya Sands' to find the right recruit to star in their busy grotto at the heart of the 11th century Dudley Castle. Marketing Manager, Andrea Hales, said:

“Although it’s still sunny August, we’re launching a summer search for a Santa to join our hugely popular grotto. We’re after a friendly Father Christmas with a great sense of humour, who enjoys working with small children. We’ll supply the uniform but it would be wonderful (although not essential) if he had his own white beard.”

Andrea added the grotto was particularly popular with groups and school parties and said weekends were especially busy. Santa’s festive run starts on December 1st and runs to December 24th, inclusive.

Interested parties should apply via email or post to Marketing Department, Dudley Zoological Gardens, Castle Hill, Dudley DY1 4QF. You should include a CV and any festive photos if you've have taken on the role previously.

The closing date for applications is August 31, 2018.