Father Christmas will be taking a short break from his busy preparations to meet children of all ages on board tea clipper, the Cutty Sark.

The sailing ship will be festively decorated to extend a warm welcome to Santa Claus and all his visitors.

The Captain's saloon is to be used as the grotto, where children will be able to talk to Santa about their Christmas wishes. They will be given a gift can have a mounted instant photo taken.

Crowds will also be entertained by one of his elfs, the Shanty Men will be performing songs of the sea and demonstrating of knot-tying while traditional refreshments will be served from the galley by the ship's cook.

Dec 8 and 9, Visit Santa on board the Cutty Sark, King William Walk, Greenwich, 11am-4pm, adults £3.50, conc £2.50, family (two adults and three children) £8.50, plus admission to Santa and gift, £1.50, 020 8858 3445.

December 3, 2001 17:25

Joan Gardner