Santa's grotto evacuated after fire hits Woodbridge garden centre

Santa was forced to evacuate following the fire. Credit: Teresa Goodchild

A fire has destroyed a Santa's grotto at a Suffolk garden centre.

Santa and the rest of the staff at Notcutts in Woodbridge had to be evacuated following the blaze which happened at around 3.30pm on Sunday afternoon.

Two fire engines were sent to tackle the fire in the marquee which was being used as a grotto for Christmas.

Smoke could be seen billowing into the sky above the town, but no one was hurt in the incident.

The smoke from the fire could be seen in Woodbridge town centre. Credit: Teresa Goodchild

Notcutts have confirmed that they are hoping to reopen the centre as usual today, but the grotto will remain closed until further notice.

"Today there was a fire in the grotto at the Woodbridge centre. No-one was injured," a Notcutts spokesperson said.

"We will reopen as usual on Monday, however the grotto will remain closed. Anyone with grotto tickets should contact us for more details. Our thanks to the emergency services for their quick response."