IT was finally party time for disabled children left disappointed after Pizza Hut refused their booking, after city businesses stepped in to help.

In March, the Worcester News reported how the Shrub Hill Retail Park branch of the chain refused a booking from the New Hope charity - much to the upset of its manager Jean Wilson.

Mrs Wilson alleged the manager told her the children's carers would cause an issue because they would not be spending any money in the restaurant.

The story went on to make national headlines and Pizza Hut later admitted it had got the decision "wrong this time" after the manager followed guidelines to not allow large bookings at peak times - despite Mrs Wilson being able to see a party of eight booked in the diary.

But after reading our story, staff at Bottles Wine Bar and Pan Pizza, both in New Street, joined forces and were determined to make sure the children and carers' pizza party still went ahead.

This afternoon the wine bar was closed to the public so the 14 children, who suffer from a range of conditions including autism, partial and full blindness, could enjoy a private party.

And Pan Pizza opened early, with pizzas and other fast food brought in for the children to enjoy.

Deanie Probert, deputy manager at New Hope, said there had been a lot of shock at the way the children were treated when the story was first reported.

"Obviously the youngsters have just as much right as other kids to access these outdoor activities and surroundings, without having to face the stigma around it," she said.

"Activities are all about the kids having fun, experiencing things like any kid does everyday."

She thanked staff at Bottles Wine and Pan Pizza for supporting them, adding the youngsters also enjoyed the party games, and dancing to music played.

Richard Everton, from Bottles, said partner Sue Patey alerted him to the story and she suggested they approach Mrs Wilson from the charity, having previously met her at an awards ceremony.

Mr Everton said: "It was unbelievable how a major chain could do that.

"When we heard about it we immediately knew we would step in, and decided to do something at Bottles.

"We had a chat with our friends across the road, and we said if the youngsters could not have their party at Pizza Hut, we shut our doors and make sure they get their party here."

For more on the charity visit newhopeworcester.co.uk.