CHRISTMAS is just around the corner and staff at Bowhill House are already making plans.

To kick-start the festivities at the estate near Selkirk, families can join Santa, his elves, and some Christmas-jumper clad runners for a festive themed fun run of one mile or five kilometres through the grounds.

Bowhill’s annual Santa Jog returns on Saturday, December 1 at 11am and is open to visitors of all ages.

Joggers and spectators can heat up afterwards with a cosy cappuccino or a pigs-in-blankets roll.

There will also be a magical adaptation of Grimm’s tale, The Elves and the Shoemaker from 3pm on the same Saturday.

It will be a colourful performance with puppets and lots of lovely shoes.

One good turn deserves another, and this message is prevalent in Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre’s production of The Elves and the Shoemaker.

A poor shoemaker has not enough money to pay his rent. He has enough materials to make one last pair of shoes or he will lose his shop! With the help of two mischievous Elves, he makes some unusual shoes that are very much appreciated and rewards the Elves in return.

Budding Christmas crafters can also create a sparkling festive wreath for their home at workshops held throughout December at Bowhill.

A handmade Christmas garland adds a personal touch to home decorations and the team at Bowhill will provide all the materials to make the wreaths as colourful, fragrant, elaborate or subtle as desired.

A hot drink, mince pie and step-by-step tuition will also be provided making the workshops suitable for experienced and novice crafters alike.

Wreath making workshops take place from 10am-12pm on December 4, 5 and 6 from 2pm to 4pm and on December 11 and 12 from 6pm to 8pm.

Helen Currie, house manager at Bowhill told us: “Our fun, festive events are the perfect way to get into the spirit of Christmas this season. Families can have a packed day out and enjoy the Santa Jog and the Grimm’s tale puppet show on the same day.

“Our wreath making workshops have proved very popular in previous years and are a great activity to do with family and friends to get into the Christmas spirit this year.

“We look forward to welcoming more visitors to Bowhill and I’d urge anyone interested in our festive events to book in advance to secure their place.”

For more information visit www.bowhillhouse.co.uk/events or to book call 01750 22204 or email info@bowhillhouse.co.uk.