Santa was welcomed to Dudley Zoo by children’s television presenters Evie Pickerill and Gyasi Sheppy as the attraction opened their Christmas grotto.

Both Evie and Gyasi are starring in this year’s pantomime at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre - Snow White. Dudley Zoo’s Media and Communication Officer, Rachel Hickman, said:

“Over the last few weeks the inside of the 11th century castle has been magically transformed into ‘The Chronicles of Dudley Zoo’, complete with a lion, a witch and a wardrobe.

“As the local partner of the Grand Theatre’s pantomime, we were delighted Evie and Gyasi, alongside reindeer Lily and Sunflower, were able to help us declare this year’s grotto officially open.

“We now look forward to welcoming thousands of families to the 40-acre site in the run-up to Christmas to meet with Santa and visit his reindeer in their decorated paddock.”
 
Santa’s Grotto opened at the weekend and will continue through to Christmas Eve. Tickets are available through the Zoo's website.