A new type of Father Christmas experience is being launched in Downham Market this year, with children able to build a collection of keepsakes over nine Christmases.
Santa’s Study is being created by Magical VIP Visits, a children’s entertainment business run by Zak Roncari, 37, alongside his main job as a care worker.
Mr Roncari, who lives in Downham Market, said: “This latest venture grew out of the idea of me wanting to make a Santa experience that would be more personal, believable and memorable for children.
“Instead of Santa’s grotto, the experience is also set in Santa’s study.”
Children will have time to chat to Father Christmas and receive personalised North Pole correspondence and keepsakes.
This year will also mark the start of a planned nine-year Reindeer Collection, with a different part of the collection introduced each year.
The first will feature Comet, with children receiving a star and a commemorative coin depicting one of Santa’s nine reindeer.
Mr Roncari first played Father Christmas after being asked to take on the role at his twin daughters’ school four years ago.
He said: “The children enjoyed it and I could see the joy in their eyes so I continued the following year and eventually turned it into a business.”
Magical VIP Visits now provides character visits, princess parties, superhero experiences, seasonal entertainment and event appearances for families, schools, care settings, businesses and community events across Norfolk and surrounding areas.
Santa’s Study will take place at the Methodist Church in Downham Market on 12 and 13 December.
The experience will cost £16.95 per child, with discounts available for more than one child. Public booking opens at 7pm on Sunday, 20 September, with families on the Priority List able to book from Friday, 18 September.
