Could you save the day? Santa is too busy to attend the Woolverstone Wish Christmas Fair and unless a stand-in can be found, the grotto will remain empty.

The charity is desperate to find someone to fill the big red suit on November 30, and fear that children could be left disappointed if no-one comes forward.

Cheryl Thayer, charity chairman, said: “It wouldn’t be a Christmas fair without Santa.”

She added: “We have also been let down by our usual face painter and are hoping someone may be able to volunteer their services.

“We like to have specific things for the children to do so they are entertained as their parents have a wonder around, and face painting and the grotto are a major part of that.”

The fair, now in it’s third year, will raise funds for the Woolverstone Wish appeal.

Launched in 2009, the appeal was set up to improve the capacity, privacy and dignity within the cancer unit at Ipswich Hospital. The original target was £800,000 and the total currently stands at £550,000.

Ms Thayer, who also works in the oncology department as an admin coordinator, added: “People from outside come along, but we also get a lot of patients come and visit and people who have had relatives go through the department.

“Everyone is welcome to join us on the day.”

The event runs from 10am to 4pm, on Saturday, November 30, and free parking is available in the oncology staff car park.

Anyone who can help man the grotto or provide face painting, even if only for a few hours, should call the oncology department on 01473 704764 and leave a message for Cheryl.