FATHER Christmas arrived at a community centre along with his elves to turn the place into a winter wonderland as Barrow's beloved grotto officially opened for another year.

Barrow and District Disability Association's office in School Street welcomed more than 300 children and their families to meet Santa himself.

The gathered children who turned up in their droves were enthralled by Nanny Elf, who led them through a chorus of Christmas songs.

The day also marked the switch-on of the group's Christmas lights after Santa had hopped off his sleigh.

Margaret Burrow, the honorary chief executive of the association was thrilled to welcome families again to the event, which has run for more than 20 years.

She said: "It was so nice to welcome the children and it was such nice thing to be able to do for them.

"We were inundated, there was a huge increase in numbers from last year as well."

Among the jubilation was a moment that saw a father connect with his daughter via webcam.

Serving in the army in the Falkland Islands, the dad did not want to miss the chance to see his daughter meet Santa.

She said: "It is lovely to be able to see moments like this.

"Christmas after all is about families being together and not just about presents."

The day was funded once again by businessman Peter Schofield, of Schofield Construction, who donated money towards the festivities.

Mrs Burrow said the grotto catered for the needs of all children, with textured surfaces for visually impaired children.

The grotto is also scented with frankincense and myrrh in a nod to the three wise men.

Mrs Burrow said: "It is what makes us different to any of the other grottos you can go to.

"One boy who was blind who came along sadly died a few years ago.

"Before he passed away he told his parents he had seen the real Father Christmas because he could smell him."

The association is looking for volunteers to sing festive tunes with the children.

The grotto will be open again next weekend between 10am and 3pm.