Virtual Santa's grotto set up - 23rd December 2020

Santa: "What a surprise!"

Mum: "Say hello to Santa!"

Child: "Santa!"

Santa: "Hello!"

No one has escaped the challenges of 2020, not even Father Christmas. This year, the jolly gift bringer has been stuck at the North Pole since travel restrictions prevent him meeting children at all the Santa's grottoes around the world.

Thankfully, a husband and wife team have stepped up to assist Santa Claus. Alongside some merry actors, Madeline and Freddie have transformed their London flat into a virtual grotto.

Madeleine: "We wanted this to be a really high-quality experience, using the best, sort of, actors and performing arts supporters, using the best set that we could and the best technology to make sure that this experience was absolutely as magical as it could be."

Although, due to Madeline and Freddie's work commitments, the grotto only operates at weekends, it's already proved a hit with families, with over 500 of them signing up for one of Father Christmas's many packages on offer.

Aaron Spendelow is the man behind the beard.

Aaron: "On these calls, we have a game, we have a song, we sometimes have a story, we have some jokes. Like, there's a lot of interactivity that come with it and it brings a lot of joy and happiness, and I think that's what we all need."

No matter where you are, you'll still have the chance to speak to St Nick, even if it's only a video call! But come Christmas Eve, make sure to put out Santa's milk and cookies!

Santa: "And what drink would you leave me?"

Children: "What do you like?"

Santa: "I would like a glass of milk, please."