Christmas comes early to Sandown Park this year as the Tingle Creek Christmas Festival arrives in December, providing entertainment for the whole family.

Hailed as one of the racing calendar’s top events, the festival will showcase many of jump racing’s biggest equine stars as they go head-to-head in the feature races, most notably the Grade 1 Tingle Creek Chase.

Elsewhere at Sandown there will be plenty of festive activities to keep everyone amused.

Traditional horse and sleigh rides will greet visitors at Esher station and transport them to the racecourse.

There will be an off-course pantomime – this year Sleeping Beauty – while the Esher Hall will be turned into the perfect Christmas market – an opportunity to buy gifts, decorations and treats for family and friends.

Children can visit Santa in his grotto, play on a giant Wii available to all and there will be the chance to create your own personalised Christmas card.

There will also be the unique opportunity to meet Ian Whybrow, author of Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs, and Linda Chapman, author of My Secret Unicorn.

The festival appeals to all ages, racing and non racing fans alike, and is a great way to share the magic of the festive season.

It takes place on Friday, December 7, and Saturday, December 8.

Children under 18 enjoy free entry (accompanied by an adult), while groups of 12 or more enjoy 20 per cent off.

To book tickets or for more information please visit sandown.co.uk or call 01372 470047.