YOU don't have to go to Lapland to experience Santa's grotto on real snow – because there is one right here in the North West.

Indoor snow slope Chill Factore – next to the Trafford Centre – will be welcoming some extra special guests to its slopes.

And this year, Santa and his elves are also laying on special sessions for youngsters with autism.

Recognising that activities, such as a Santa’s Grotto, can be overwhelming for many children with autism, the indoor snow slope will be holding a number of sessions that cater to these needs on Friday November 22 and 29.

Chill Factore believe magical moments should be enjoyed by all families, so will be adapting it’s North (West) Pole to allow little ones with autism and other sensory requirements to feel more comfortable.

Throughout the day on Friday November 22 and 29, families will be able to book exact time slots to see Santa in his magical grotto on real snow.

These time slots will reduce crowding and noise levels to provide a calm and relaxing experience. The usual twinkling lights will be dimmed, and Christmas songs switched off, so children can share their Christmas list with Santa in an environment that suits them.

Every child that visits will receive a special gift from Santa before enjoying 30 minutes playtime on the Chill Factore’s Mini Moose Land. Plus, parents will have the opportunity to treasure the moment forever with a photo of their experience and other souvenirs available in the gift shop afterwards. Tickets for the autism-friendly sessions and Mini Moose Land are available for just £8 per child (parent or carer goes free of charge).

On the launch of Santa’s grotto, Chill Factore CEO Morwenna Angove said: “It’s really important to us to be an inclusive destination for families, so we’re really proud to be launching these autism-friendly sessions at our Santa’s grotto.”

“We’ve held similar sessions on our family-fun Snow Park, speaking to many parents and carers that understand the needs of children with autism, so we are confident the adaptations we will be making to our grotto cater to these requirements.”

Chill Factore autism-friendly Santa’s Grotto is available to visit all day on Friday 22nd November and Friday 29th November.

Santa’s Grotto and Mini Moose Land is available from £8 per child – parent or carer goes free of charge.

Chill Factore guarantees a festive day out for the whole family. For more information about the experience visit: www.chillfactore.com/christmas