WITH less than a week to go until the big day, twins Gabriel and Oscar Buckland made sure they made time to pop in and see Santa and tell him what they want in their stockings this Christmas.

The 23-month-old brothers from The Causeway, Chippenham, joined the children flocking to see Santa in his Winter Wonderland at the Olympiad sports centre in Monkton Park.

The grotto was set up a few weeks ago by staff, after the Gazette revealed that Santa would not be appearing at the Emery Gate shopping centre.

"It was hard work getting it all set up, but it's been worth it and special thanks must go to Wavin for really helping us out," said Olympiad spokesperson Barbara Gray.

"The Winter Wonderland has proved very popular with children of all ages.

"We were very lucky to secure the services of Santa last-minute and he's been busy listening to what all the children want him to bring them this year."

Gabriel and Oscar's mum, Claire, 35, said her sons were thrilled to meet Santa face-to-face.

"Last year was their first Christmas, but they were too little to appreciate what was going on," she said.

"They love seeing all the lights and wouldn't leave Santa alone when they were sitting on his lap I think it's great that the centre came forward and organised the grotto this year."

Santa's Winter Wonderland is open weekdays, 11.30am2.30pm and 4pm6pm and at weekends from noon to 5pm. Its final day is December 23, when it will be open from 11.30am4pm.

Entrance costs £2.50 per child and includes a present and a prize.