FIVE year-old Lucy Bracewell's dream came true when she was invited to open the Christmas grotto at a Bradford garden centre.

After Birkenshaw Primary School pupil, Lucy sent a picture and a letter to Tong Garden Centre saying she wanted to be a "little Santa", staff were happy to oblige.

Jo Dales, Tong Garden Centre marketing manager, said: "We were charmed by Lucy's approach and invited her, and sister, Megan to perform the official opening of the grotto.

"We were delighted that Lucy was able to help us to celebrate the opening of Tong's very special grotto experience."

Lucy's mum, Sarah said: "Just to say a massive thank you to you and all the staff at Tong Garden Centre. Lucy's wish has come true and was an amazing experience she will never forget."

Lucy and her family were the first to go through the grotto experience and witness Santa's daredevil arrival at Tong that was orchestrated with the Parachute Regiment's Red Devils.

Santa will be in his grotto every weekend until the end of November and daily during December. The 45-minute grotto experience must be pre-booked and comprises a walk through the winter wonderland, a festive fairytale with Santa and a visit to Santa's elves' workshop to choose a gift.