I remember those Grottos, too. The best one for us was always Lewis's, and we knew the REAL Father Christmas was there - the others were just his helpers. When we came to live in Southport, in 1967, the local people didn't know what the Grotto was - it just wasn't a tradition here. A friend asked me did I know what "Grotto Day" was - it was the Christmas Shopping day that Liverpool Schoolchildren were always given in December. We missed it in Southport! Marged Hello, Christmas and New Year - Merseyside memories - As a child I recall the "Grottos" in Lewis and Blacklers Stores - remember one where you went on water in a small boat - Father Christmas always with a gift at the end. Usually went to Morning Service Chistmas Day (Childwall or Mossley Hill). New Year Sirens etc and the Tall Dar Man bearing coal and I think Salt. Happy thoughts as I sit in Queensland in high temps. Happy Christmas to you all. Regards Maureen