FOR the first time in forever, youngsters can visit an ice kingdom in Brierley Hill this Christmas.

Mum-of-two Kirsty James will bring a well-known ice queen to life next month when she opens up a grotto at Toys ‘R’ Us in Merry Hill.

She will be at the store every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in December to pose for pictures with youngsters and give them the chance to make a glitter wish at the wishing well.

Every child will also receive a free gift and there will be a raffle - giving families the chance to win a hamper that will be delivered on Christmas Eve - in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Kirsty, who has been in the entertainment industry since she was a child and sings in a Motown trio called Baby Love, said the idea for the grotto came together when she was looking for something different to do with her own children over the festive season.

The 28-year-old, who lives in Lower Gornal said the look on children’s faces when they met her in full costume was “priceless” and the grotto was “really affordable for parents too”.

Entry to the grotto, which will be open from 11am to 3pm, costs £5.

The shopping centre will also be home to a traditional grotto on the lower mall, near Quest.

Intu has joined forces with preschool toy manufacturer Playmobil, giving youngsters the chance to meet some larger than life figures.

Once inside the reindeer stables, children will be treated to an entertaining and magical performance from two of Santa’s elves, Trixie and Tweedy and their baby reindeer, Skidda, before meeting Santa, who will give them a token for a Playmobil gift.

Entry costs £6.50 for children and £1 for adults.

A family ticket for two adults and two children is available for £12.50.

For opening times, click here.