SINCE Prancer and Dancer arrived at Tatton Park in 2011 these adorable reindeer have been at Father Christmas’s side as they guide his sleigh through the night skies and into Tatton Park.

And Father Christmas is expected to arrive at Tatton on November 27 in time to spend December at the farm.

Visitors are invited to come and meet him on the following weekends when his reindeer will have starring roles in the farm’s Christmas activities.

The perfect pair will take centre stage in the traditional live nativity where specially-selected farm animals are stabled around the nativity scene. They can be sure of a warm reception from Frosty the donkey who will be taking part in the nativity.

This year Prancer and Dancer will be joined once again by some rather special friends – five lovely willow weaved reindeer made by Sarah Gallagher Heyes.

They will be roaming around the festive farm and children will have great fun finding them and working out the missing pair.

If you pop in to the piggery you may find one there along with seven of Tamara’s, (Tatton’s Tamworth), piglets which were born a month ago.

Lots of festive activities are included in a visit to Tatton’s farm this Christmas.

Storyteller Honor Giles will weave winter magic with seasonal tales and Aunty Mary will be keeping warm in the cottage, making Christmas decorations which children can take home to paint.

Children’s entertainers will sprinkle some Christmas cheer and children will be able to `have a go’ on a traditional merry-go-round.

Visitors to Home Farm can also see Santa's spectacular sleigh, lovingly crafted by Tatton’s National Trust volunteers and enjoy live music gathered around the farm’s nativity stable.

Farm Manager Jayne Chapman said: "Christmas is such a special time of year and all our farm friends are vying to be the stars of the nativity scene, our three donkeys will be putting on their Christmas coats to take a starring role along with Prancer and Dancer, two of Santa’s very own reindeer.

"It’s certainly going to be a fun filled, animal packed Christmas this year at the farm.”

Father Christmas at the Farm takes place on the weekends of November 28/29, December 5/6, 12/13, and 19/20.

Times: 11am to 4pm, last entry 3pm.

Prices: Adult £6, Child £6. Prices apply to National Trust members. The usual park entry charge of £5 per car applies.

All paying children receive a free gift from Father Christmas.