December 3, 2018

The festive family fun got underway at Clacton Pier at the weekend with a new Breakfast with Santa event in Discovery Bay.

It is the first time for more than five years that Christmas activities are being put on for youngsters at the attraction and they are proving very popular.

Children enjoyed breakfast, a host of entertainment provided by James Magic and a visit to Santa in his purpose-built grotto which was decorated throughout. There was also the opportunity to enjoy the soft play area for as long as desired.

The event was staged on Saturday and Sunday and will continue each weekend until December 23.

Nigel Brown, Clacton Pier’s Communications Manager, said the aim was to stage a family fun activity with a visit to Santa as the centrepiece.

“The grotto cost £15,000 but was well worth it as the feedback we got was that it had the wow factor,” he said. “There was an area for children to do some colouring and write a Christmas list until it was their turn to see the main man.

“Staff got into the spirit by dressing up and there was also a visit from Sidney Seagull, the Pier’s mascot.”

After school weekday events begin today (Monday) and will be staged from 3.30pm to 6.30pm through to December 21. Children eat free and can visit Santa’s grotto with every paid entry to Discovery Bay during those times.

Full details are available on www.clactonpier.co.uk . Spaces for Breakfast with Santa are still available and can be booked online. It is also possible to turn up and pay on the day.