Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton is hosting Open Evenings in November, which will include free food sampling and the chance to see Christmas displays. Norma Moore, General Manager of the award-winning garden centre, said: “Everyone is welcome to our free Christmas Open Evenings.

Anyone who comes along to the garden centre between 6pm and 9pm from Tuesday, November 27 until Thursday, November 29 will have the chance to meet Santa. “We will also be giving visitors a free mince pie and a complimentary glass of mulled wine for customers who are aged 18 and over, while stocks last. “There will be the opportunity for people to take part in free tasting sessions too.

Visitors will be able to sample Christmas food and chocolate. People over the age of 18 will be able to try local speciality beers and ciders too. “During the Christmas Open Evenings we will be serving a traditional festive dinner and Christmas pudding in our restaurant from 6pm until 8pm for £9.99 per person.” Members of the garden centre’s loyalty club scheme will receive double reward points during the event on all purchases but some restrictions will apply.

Norma added: “We will also be giving a free 2013 calendar worth £5 to loyalty card holders who spend £5 or more in-store and have an invitation to the evening with them. “Anyone who isn’t a member of the club and who would like to sign up for free during our open evenings is invited to do so.” Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre’s Christmas Open Evenings run on Tuesday, November 27, Wednesday, November 28 and Thursday, November 29 from 6pm to 9pm. Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

The family-run, independent garden centre was launched in 1982 and is run by the Bellman family with the help of nearly 100 staff. Some have been with the business for more than 25 years. 

Christmas Open Evenings/Monkton Elm For more information, please call the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, on 01823 412381, visit www.monktonelmgardencentre.co.uk,