DESPITE early reports of a wet Christmas, dreams of a white wonderland have come true for children in Swindon with a giant snowglobe placed in the town centre.

The inflatable dome, full of artificial snow, was put up in the Brunel Centre on Monday and has already attracted dozens of children who want to take part in the unique Christmas experience by getting inside the globe.

Brunel manager, Tony Wilkes, said: “Everyone loves the magic of a snowglobe, but being able to actually stand inside a giant snowglobe and play in it must be every child’s dream.

“What’s more, there are no cold hands or feet or clothes after a snowball fight in this snowglobe, so that’s a big plus for mums and dads.”

There is also a professional photographer on hand to capture some festive shots for families in the town.

Mum Heather Northam, from The Prinnels, West Swindon, said her four-year-old twins Erin and Toby have been demanding to have Christmas early after a visit to the dome.

She said: “It is really magical and it is like a dream come true for the children. When I was little I used to stare into Christmas snowglobes and imagine I was part of the snowy street scene – well now my children actually can.

“Although I think it is quite early to be getting in the Christmas mood my two are so excited already – they have asked for Christmas this month.

“I think its lovely there are Christmas events in the town centre for families.”

The snowglobe will be in The Brunel for the rest of the week and will when move to The Parade for another week.

It was erected just a few days before the Christmas lights are switched on in the town centre by pantomime star Lorraine Chase tomorrow.

The globe is just the first festive phase by town centre management company inSwindon who have planned a bumper schedule of Christmas treats for the town.

Simon Jackson, inSwindon’s chief executive, has said this Christmas the focus will be firmly on the town centre.

“There’s something for everyone to enjoy in the town centre this year,” he said. “We’re already getting a lot of positive feedback from visitors.

“The retailers are pulling out all the stops for a bumper Christmas.

“With competitive parking, free Thursday evening bus travel, family entertainment and traditional seasonal treats on offer, we think this will be our best Christmas ever.”

For more information log onto www.inswindon.com.