THERE’S festive fun in store for all the family when Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience hosts its ‘Christmas Crackers’ extravaganza.

Santa’s Magical Workshop will be in town on Thursday (December 13) between 4.30pm and 7.30pm when people will be able to try their hand at a host of yuletide craft activities including making magic reindeer dust and a 12-days-to-Christmas advent calendar.

The quayside itself will be echoing with the sound of a Christmas choir and seasonal characters including elves and snowmen will be adding to the magic as they stroll around the quayside.

Lesley Strickland, Hartlepool Council’s cultural events officer, said: “We’re turning Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience into a sparkling Christmas wonderland packed with fun for people of all ages.

“Give yourself and your family a special early festive treat and an evening which will fill you with Christmas cheer.”

Tickets for the event cost £3.50 each (it’s free for children under two) and should be bought and collected in advance from Hartlepool Art Gallery and Tourist Information Centre in Church Square on 01429-890000. Tickets for visits to Santa’s grotto, costing £2.50 per child, can also be purchased at the same time.