People will have the chance to meet Father Christmas and his feline helpers at a special charitable event.

Cats Protection will once again host its Christmas fair and grotto to spread festive cheer and give children the chance to take a magical sleigh ride to meet the present giver.

The charity’s National Cat Adoption Centre, in Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath, will open its doors for the event on Sunday, December 11 from 10am until 3pm.

There will be stalls to stock up on Christmas gifts, festive carols from a choir, hot food and other refreshments, as well as the chance to meet some of the cats currently being cared for at the centre.

And for a £5 donation, children can take a sleigh ride to meet Santa and receive a present.

Cats Protection’s national cat adoption centre deputy manager Tania Marsh said: “We’re really looking forward to our Christmas event which will get everyone in the festive mood while raising vital funds to help care for cats at the centre.

“There will be something for everyone – with Santa and kids activities for little ones to unique gifts for anyone stocking up on Christmas shopping. It’ll also be a great chance to meet some of the lovely cats in our care looking for a new home.”

One of the cats currently being cared for at the centre is Paddy, a former stray who is looking for a new home after a tough life living outdoors.

“Poor Paddy had been living outside for about a year before he was given shelter by a local animal lover,” said Ms Marsh.

“But with her own pets to care for, she couldn’t take on another cat so made sure he came to Cats Protection for rehoming. Paddy is a lovely boy, he’s had a hard time and it would be wonderful to have him settled in a nice warm home for Christmas.”