CHESTER Racecourse invited families at its annual fun day to an exclusive preview of what they can expect to experience at its first Winter Wonderland later this year.

The Paddock suites were converted into a mini winter scene, providing race goers with a glimpse of the detail and magic that will be created at the Roodee during the event, which runs from November 24 until December 31.

Attendees were invited to see life-size characters, and an enchanted forest full of animal animatronics including rabbits, foxes, reindeer, polar bears and penguins.

The 34,559 attendees at the family fun day were also treated to a parade, which included an ice queen, life size toy soldiers and elves.

The Winter Wonderland horse, jockey and mascot were also unveiled during the parade.

The Winter Wonderland will open for a preview on Thursday, November 21 as part of the lighting up of the city parade, which will officially mark the start of Christmas in Chester.

Richard Thomas, chief executive of Chester Race Company, said: “We really hope that the city embraces the Winter Wonderland and the efforts of the council and Marketing Cheshire to ensure that the event is a huge success.”

M&S Bank has committed to sponsor the event’s enchanted forest and ice rink.

Racing takes place again this Saturday .