Desperately Seeking Santa!

Staff are hoping a summertime search will lead to an additional Santa to join our Sleeping Beauty grotto.

Head of Media and Communications, Jill Hitchman, said: “Santa’s Grotto is always very popular but last year we struggled to cope as numbers grew so have decided to take on an additional Santa this December, and are on the lookout now for the right recruit.”   Santa Number Three will join a busy grotto in the heart of the 11th century Dudley Castle for a festive run from December 3 to 24 inclusive.   Jill added: “It’s a full day, busy with lots of groups and school parties, and weekends in particular are exceptionally hectic.   “We’re looking for a friendly Santa, with a sense of humour, who likes working with small children; this year’s theme is Sleeping Beauty so the castle grotto is particularly apt.   “We’ll supply the uniform but it would be helpful if he has his own white beard, and with around 15 weeks to go before Christmas duties begin he’s got plenty of time to grow one!”   Interested Santas should apply to Marketing Manager Julia Lockett at julia.marketing@dudleyzoo.org.uk or write to her at Dudley Zoo and Castle, Castle Hill, Dudley DY1 4QF.