Free Christmas grotto bus coming to Liverpool's most deprived areas for families to enjoy

A mobile Christmas grotto is coming to Liverpool's most 'poorest' areas and it's completely free.

Children will be able to meet Santa inside a single decker bus, decorated with fairy lights and magical Christmas decorations.

The idea behind the Christmas grotto bus is to bring a festive experience to families that might not be able to usually afford to take their children to one.

One of the fundraisers behind this free family event is John Collins, who is a member of the Liverpool One Church , based in Everton.

John, 41, and his wife Jo and their four children are part of an army of volunteers who support the church's City Care initiative which offers help to those who are most vulnerable and in need in our city.

John, who lives in Walton, told the ECHO: "This year, we're bringing a free mobile grotto event, where we'll be able to love on some of the poorest areas in Liverpool.

"There is a lot of pressure on families - the average cost for a grotto visit is £12 (adult and child) to see Santa and receive a gift. Our grotto will be free and the child will also receive a free gift and a selection box.

"Stagecoach have loaned us the bus and a driver for two days and have been very supportive and my wife and her friends will transform the inside into the most amazing Christmas grotto .

Where can you visit the Christmas grotto bus?

The church has identified key areas - one in Speke and the other in Newsham Park - where they feel the communities will benefit the most.

The Christmas grotto bus will be parked up at The Venny (Speke Adventure Playground) on Conleach Road on Saturday, December 7 and at Newsham Park on Gardner's Drive on Sunday, December 8.

There will be live entertainment over both days including students from LIPA singing Christmas songs plus X-Factor's Anthony Russell will be performing.

Families will be able to meet Father Christmas but it will be on a first come, first served basis.

There will be two sessions during the day - 11am to 1pm then 2pm to 4pm - and people will be given a numbered ticket.

John, who works on the income team for a housing association in Liverpool, added: "We will do our best to get through everyone to avoid disappointment.

"We won't have a photographer, but families are welcome to take their own with Santa.

"We have also set up a fundraising page to help fund the event so any donations will be extremely welcome."

Go to gofundme.com/f/mobile-grotto to make a donation.

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