No sitting on Santa's knee and gifts delivered via a slide, but hundreds book for socially-distanced grotto visit
Hundreds of children have booked a socially-distanced appointment with Santa in his grotto at the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness during the run-up to Christmas.
The grotto, which runs until December 20, will raise money for Highland Hospice.
Located next to the charity’s café, In the City, it has a coronavirus-safe environment where youngsters can see and talk to Santa on his sleigh.
The gifts will be delivered down a slide.
So far almost 700 children have booked a slot.
Kirstin Gault, the centre’s digital and marketing executive, said the centre knew how special it was for families to meet Santa and share those all-important Christmas wishes.
"Although the festive season is going to be a little different this year, we’re very grateful that the Highland Hospice will be hosting this charming experience for our littlest visitors and their families while also raising much needed funds for the charity," she said.
The hospice is asking for a minimum donation of £5 per child. A gift is included.
Visits are bookable in five-minute slots, with a maximum of two children per slot, at the grotto which is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11am-5pm.
Families with three or more children need to book two consecutive slots.
A photo service will not be available this year but parents and carers can take their own photo in return for an additional donation.
For those who wish to share their image on social media, the use of #HighlandHospiceGrotto is encouraged.
Jenna Hayden, hospice community and events fundraiser, said the charity is delighted to work alongside the Eastgate Shopping Centre again this year and to spread a little joy at Christmas time.
"We have made sure that not only will the grotto be a safe and socially-distanced environment for everyone but more importantly it will still be a magical Christmas experience," she said.
Related story: Online parties will raise cash for Highland Hospice
