Marshall’s Yard in Gainsborough is set to sparkle this Christmas with a packed programme of seasonal activities, heart‑warming entertainment, and festive experiences for visitors of all ages.

This year’s celebrations include a special Letters to Santa Competition, giving children the chance to win an early Christmas present by sending a personalised letter straight to Santa himself.

To take part, children simply need to write a letter including what they would like for Christmas and if they believe they have been good or naughty this year.

Entry sheets can be collected from The Works, Prezzo, and Browns Department Store, with submissions now open now until 14th December.

Marshall's Yard has launced a special Letters to Santa Competition, giving children the chance to win an early Christmas present by sending a personalised letter straight to Santa himself

placeholder image — Marshall's Yard has launced a special Letters to Santa Competition, giving children the chance to win an early Christmas present by sending a personalised letter straight to Santa himself

A dedicated Santa post-box is located in the Foyer of The Engine House, near the entrance gates between The Phone Outlet and Cream Café. Letters can also be handed in at Santa’s Grotto on weekends when Santa is available to meet families.

One lucky winner will be selected at random by Santa’s hardworking Elves to receive a prize.

Adding even more Christmas magic, visitors will have the chance to meet real Reindeer for free, on Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, from 11am to 2pm. The Reindeer will be stationed between Next and M&S Foodhall, right beside Santa’s Grotto.

Santa himself will be welcoming families into his Grotto on Saturday, December 13, Sunday, December 14, Saturday, December 20, and Sunday, December 21, from noon to 3pm.

Visits cost £5 per child, with all proceeds supporting The Dransfield Foundation, helping disadvantaged young people.

Throughout December, the centre will also host local brass bands performing festive favourites.

Visitors can enjoy performances from Foss Dyke Brass Band on Saturday, December 6, from 10am; Willingham Band on Sunday, December 7, from 10am to 11am; Harworth Band on Saturday, December 13, from 11am to 2pm; Ballam Brass Band on Sunday, December 14, from 11am to 3pm, and Saturday, December 20, from 11am to 2pm; and East Riding of Yorkshire Band, from Sunday, December 21, from 11am to 3pm.

To keep up to date with news and events at Marshall’s Yard visit www.marshallsyard.co.uk.