I WAS saddened to hear that a local garden centre could not have a grotto for Father Christmas for “safety reasons”.

So I was especially thrilled to see my grandchildren enjoying a magical visit to Santa’s cabin at the Farmer’s Cart at Towthorpe.

On arrival, an elf showed us the way to the “departure lounge” where, surrounded by skiing penguins and polar bears, we awaited our sleigh pulled by a tractor (the reindeer were resting).

The sleigh was big enough for a few family groups to board and off we went to the woods. There was Mrs Christmas to take us to meet the great man himself in his cosy hut, where he chatted to us all.

Then he sent us on our way and the children collected their gifts from the toy shop with a magic key. There were many little surprises and the whole experience was delightful.

These occasions mean so much to children and parents – and grandparents – alike. I hope the health and safety police do not take away all these simple treats. Thank you to the Sykes family at Farmer’s Cart.

June Hardy, Nether Way, Nether Poppleton, York.