KIND-hearted pensioners have pulled out all the stops to transform their garden into Santa's grotto for kids this Christmas.

Newton Aycliffe couple Brian and Eleanor Nichol are expecting hundreds of children to turn out for some festive fun as they open their doors for four days in aid of charity.

The pair have spent more than £1,000 on decorations and shelled out a further £300 on goodies.

"We enjoy making people laugh and smile and love to see the expressions on the kids' faces - and their parents' faces," said Mr Nichol. "We're doing this to let people have a little bit of fun and enjoyment. It's just a brilliant thing to do."

The 74-year-old and his wife are dressing up as Mr and Mrs Claus for the occasion.

Children will first be greeted by Eleanor, 66, in their back yard where they will receive a bag filled with sweets, cake and a gift.

Against the backdrop of a 'spectacular' lit up, garden grotto they will then be met by Santa who will give them a present.

Inside the visitors will find a Christmas tree that snows and sings and there will be a tombola in the kitchen.

Mr and Mrs Nichol are charging £2 per child with every penny going towards the Great North Air Ambulance.

No strangers to raising funds for charity, the couple invited the public into their home last year and welcome visitors each Halloween - this year raising £1,000.

Over the years they have spent more than £2,500 on Halloween toys, decorations and film props from across the world.

Families can pay their special visit to Father Christmas at their house, 354 Sampson Place, between 5pm to 7pm from Sunday (December 20) to Wednesday (December 23).