Party time: An appointment with Santa puts a little magic into Christmas

AT THIS time of year you’ll often see a certain crimson-clad pensioner, who is rushed off his feet.

Not content with making his lists, checking them twice and then sorting out who’s naughty and nice, he is busy zooming all round the world, making personal appearances.

My younger daughter Hope expressed a wish to meet Father Christmas, the “real one, not just some guy in a suit,” were her exact words. So imagine how delighted we were to have a brunch meeting with the great man himself at Hamleys, Glasgow. Lucky youngsters can arrange, in advance, breakfast, brunch or afternoon meetings with him. It goes without saying that spaces are strictly limited and it’s extremely popular.

We met next to the chimney at the top of the escalator, where on arrival, Cheery Elf and Wise Old Elf checked off our names from his clipboard. While we were waiting for everyone to arrive – there were around 15 youngsters to come in total – Crazy Elf and his sidekick Lazy Elf amused us with a spot of elf marching and a bit of a singsong. Next, Wise Old Elf marched us all off to Santa’s Christmas-bedecked room where we had to use a little bit of magic to open the doors.

It was a bit of a tight squeeze, but all the youngsters took their seats and the elves served up light refreshments while we waited for the star of the show to arrive (he was flying in from a very important logistics meeting at the North Pole).

Then the children got down to the task of list writing, just so they could discuss their requirements in detail with Mr Claus. There was just enough time for a quick game of musical statues and a rendition of Jingle Bells, before the VIP himself entered the room.

A spot of relaxed storytelling calmed down the fever pitch of excitement. Then each child took it in turn to chat to Santa at length and pose for a picture or two. While you’re awaiting your turn, the elves organise cookie decorating and colouring-in.

Each child gets a lovely present bag. Ours contained, amongst other things, a beautiful Hamleys bear, clockwork robotic Santa and one of the biggest chocolate coins I’ve ever seen.

Although, initially cautious about the experience, Hope really got into the swing of things and loved every minute. The reaction of some of the youngest children was delightful to witness. Although Hope didn’t raise the naughty or nice question with Father Christmas, she did clock the golden magic key round his neck, so she reckons he must be the bona fide Claus.

• Breakfast, brunch, lunch or tea with Santa at Hamleys, St Enoch Centre, Glasgow lasts one hour and costs £25 per child. See www.hamleys.com for more details.