CHILDREN in Warndon played host to a special visitor last week.

Father Christmas took time out from his busy pre-Christmas schedule to stop off at the community centre in Shap Drive.

He was visiting at the special request of Worcester City Early Help, a service delivered by Action for Children on behalf of Worcestershire County Council and housing association Fortis Living.

Dawn Knight, service coordinator for Action for Children, said: “It was great to welcome Father Christmas to our party.

"Over 40 families joined the team from Lavender Children’s Centre to see him and enjoy an afternoon packed with festive fun and games, including messy snow play, Christmas crafts and a Christmas sing-along.”

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service also attended to talk to parents about essential home fire safety checks.

They were joined by Severn Trent Water who advised families on how to reduce their water bill while Fortis Living staff were on hand to talk about local job clubs.

As well as a special gift from Santa each child was also given a brand new toothbrush to help them in the battle against tooth decay. The local dental service will be visiting the children and their parents in the new year to show them how to look after their teeth.

Dawn Knight added: “We would like to say a big thank you to Asda who made a contribution to the food costs and also to Worcester City Council who worked with the children to plant some spring bulbs in the grounds of the centre.

"But the biggest thanks of all goes to Father Christmas for stopping off to see us at such a busy time.”