Promises of a white Christmas might be as elusive as ever, but snow is guaranteed to fall in Norwich in the festive run-up.

Promises of a white Christmas might be as elusive as ever, but snow is guaranteed to fall in Norwich in the festive run-up.

Six snow machines are being brought to the city on Thursday which will ensure real flakes fall over Chapelfield for a few hours in the evening as Father Christmas makes his first visit of the year to the shopping centre.

It is part of the centre's Lapland Live event which will see Santa arrive at 7pm with two of his reindeer, Comet and Dancer, and treats for the first 50 children to come and see him.

There will also be a competition to give one lucky person and three friends or family members the trip of a lifetime to the real Lapland, taking off from Norwich International airport to meet Santa in his home country courtesy of First Choice.

The second prize is a trip around Norwich, courtesy of Banham Zoo for up to four people, accompanying Santa on his festive carriage.

And a number of third prizes include taster lessons at Norfolk Ski Club.

And there will be face painters, stilt walkers, music and balloon modelling as well as staff from the ski club to pass on tips and advice.

Snow Business will provide the festive fall every few minutes between 5.30pm and 9pm.