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FATHER CHRISTMAS, BULLRING BIRMINGHAM

19-12-2006

This was getting silly …my two year-old daughter was quickly developing a phobia of the fat bloke who's bringing her presents on Christmas Day (no not me, the other one, with a red suit and beard) so I decided to take her to meet the man himself down at his Bullring grotto.

This being Santa's deluxe workshop in the shadow of Selfridges and next to St Martin's church it wasn't cheap - a fiver each for children and adults with no exceptions. Having handed over the cash, the only question was - is it worth it?

As a middle aged bloke, I'm probably not the best judge, but I can report that the little one loved every minute.

Entrance tickets are timed to avoid long queues and a small group of us was ushered punctually into a small reception area. As we waited to see the Big Man we were entertained by an animatronic snowman and a series of promo films on a big screen telly. Not exactly art, but it kept away the tedium.

After a short wait we were wafted in by one of the elves to see Daddy Xmas himself. This bloke had obviously been working on his beer-gut the previous 11 months of the year, as he was suitably rotund - it's this kind of dedication to the job that wins Oscars for Robert de Niro.

Anyway, he was a decent cove, recognising themy girl'snervousness and treating her with the utmost respect. Somehow she overcame her trepidation when he handed her a bag of presents that included a kid's umbrella, money off vouchers for a few local attractions and a large selection box. Dad has obviously been good this year, as he got some goodies too.

Perhaps the most pleasant surprise came as we walked outside to the final part of the grotto where there are mince pies, cups of hot chocolate and sherry for the adults. We sat on the floor eating and drinking, and as we munched the little 'un was entranced by a giant singing yeti.

The visitors book was full of positive comments, andmay daughterhas so far overcome her fear of Father Christmas she's already asking when she can see him again.

Have you been to seeFather Christmasin the Bullring? Or any of the other local Santas? Leave a comment on our messageboard