STAFF at a car dealership are dressing as elves and snowmen this Christmas, as they create a winter wonderland for a garrison town.

North Coast 4X4 in Catterick Garrison has transformed itself into the North Pole for the days leading up to Christmas with staff dressing as snowmen or elves and free admission to its Santa’s grotto.

The project is designed to give something back to the families of soldiers in the military community, who have recently returned from active service.

The winter wonderland has been up and running since December 8 and is also raising money for Help for Heroes with the help of individual donations, a tombola and a raffle.

Prizes range from a car wash to a week’s accommodation in Egypt. The venture will remain at North Coast 4x4 until Christmas Eve.

Jason Madgwick, service manager at the Catterick dealership, said: “This event has gathered pace since the beginning of November when the managing directors decided to do something for the community in celebration of seeing all of our troops return from Afghanistan, not only this but we have been a long term serving garage within Catterick Garrison.”

The Santa’s grotto will run from 3pm until 5pm Monday to Friday. For more information contact the dealership on 01748-833222.