WEST Midland Safari Park has enlisted a special guest to help them in the run-up to Christmas this year - in the form of Mrs Claus.

Mrs Claus has had her own custom-built kitchen at the Park made for her to bake tasty treats - with warm chocolate chip cookies, mince pies and hot chocolate all on the menu and included in this year's Santa Safari admission price.

She will also be assisted by the Park's elves, who will be welcoming guests and ensuring they enjoy their exclusive experience.

Mrs Claus said: "I am so excited to get to work in my brand new kitchen that the lovely staff at West Midland Safari Park have worked so hard on - it is fit for Nigella herself.

"I can't wait to get baking and for people to come along and taste my delicious mince pies and warm chocolate cookies.

"Of course I will have lots of elves on hand to help me too. It is going to be so much fun."

Not to be outdone, Santa will have his own grotto - where guests can be magically transported to the North Pole and pay a visit to the man himself.

Children will be able to have a memento of their day by taking home a picture of themselves with Santa and a visit to the Elves' Workshop - where they will be able to choose their own present.

The Park's elves have also been busy getting everything ready for the festive season, transforming the Discovery Trail into a Winter Wonderland and planting more than 350 Christmas trees, complete with a sprinkling of more than 1,500kg of 'snow'.

To ensure the Santa Safari experience is maximised, there will be a Santa Checklist for youngsters to tick off each activity they participate in or see - including a trip to the festive Sea Lion Show and a visit to the Elf Craft Club in the Safari Academy.

Santa Safari opens on Saturday (November 11) for weekends only, and then daily from November 25 until Christmas Eve.

For more information or to book tickets, visit the Santa Safari website santasafari.co.uk or call 01299 402114.