Full steam ahead for Santa's Polar Express visit to the Bennachie Leisure Centre in Insch
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By the time the Polar Express departs Bennachie Leisure Centre at Insch on the last Sunday before Christmas, in the region of 450 youngsters will have climbed aboard for the Santa extravaganza.
A year in the planning, and under construction for nearly three months, visitors arrive at a ticket office and have to take a seat in the waiting room.
They then pass through a suitably dark tunnel to board the Santa express which really is a most wonderful experience.
The workshop for Santa and Mrs Claus is in a 'compartment' of the train whose windows have authentic scenery flashing past.
The workshop is packed with all kinds of toys and goodies and Santa and Mrs Claus are ready to engage with every group of young visitors.
As passengers disembark, they are taken into the main hall where there is a huge model of a steam engine and props for photos to be taken.
Joanna Macmillan who coordinates the venture and helps prepare it said: "There are 1000s of props, it was a very busy final week before we opened. We beg and borrow props so it really is a community effort which could not happen without the support of the community."
Extra slots have been added on December 22 and 23 to try to meet demand and can be booked by calling 01464 821248. The cost of £8.50 must be paid at the time of booking. Plans are already in motion for next year.
