AN enchanting winter wonderland awash with things to see and do is set to kick off the Christmas festivities today.

Dovercourt Skating Rink in Lower Marine Parade has been transformed into a magical wonderland, bringing in an ice rink and enlisting the help of Santa Claus.

The free to enter open day starts at 10.30am and will include a host of activities to mark the launch of the seasonal venue.

A day of fun will include ice skating with Elsa and Santa’s grotto, while Santa’s toy workshop will be open for business for youngsters to stuff their own festive bear.

There will also be donkey rides, bungee trampolines, traditional swing boats, a children’s roundabout, a soft play area and go karting.

Among the entertainment on offer will be Harwich Sing, Boogie Shoes Dance Academy and The Mighty Fallen, who will be performing rock and roll covers and original music.

Chris Scutt has so far been delighted with the response to the wonderland, with tickets for some of the Christmas experiences, which run up until January, selling out already.

He said: “Our aim was to bring an event to the area that is unique and will enable people to stay local and enjoy what the area has rather than go out of town this Christmas.

“We are excited with what we are bringing to the area, we have a lot of work left to do but Santa's Toy workshop and Grotto are beginning to look good and all major building work has been done.”

The ice rink will be open on dates throughout November, December and January, with tickets for a magical Christmas experience or an ice skating session available online.

Private sessions and corporate functions can also be booked.

For tickets and further information, call 01255 551296 or go to essexwinterwonderland.co.uk