IN THE blazing heat of the summer, a holiday club in Chippenham held a Christmas party for its members who have special needs.

More than 30 members of the North Wilts Holiday Club, based at St Nicholas School, were visited by Father Christmas.

Volunteer Amanda Sperritt said: "It is the first time we have had a Christmas party because we don't meet at Christmas time so we thought it would be great to hold one and the kids loved it.

"We were a bit worried the kids were going to go home and demand presents from their parents but they really enjoyed it."

The children, who have learning disabilities, physical disabilities, health issues or are on the autistic spectrum, had the chance to take part in a variety of Christmas-themed crafts, including making snowmen from polystyrene balls, making wooden reindeer and party food.

Local singers from End of the Track, who have been supporting the holiday club for years, also sang a couple of carols and gave the club a cheque for £2,700.

Mrs Sperritt said: "End of the Track have supported us for several years with the proceeds of their concerts and CD sales, and they also like to show their supporters how the money is spent."

The club members can enjoy up to 20 sessions, with outings to Bristol Zoo and visits from groups and performers such as the Sunshine Clowns.

Shoppers at Waitrose can also choose to support the club in this month's green token scheme, with North Wilts Holiday Club being one of the three chosen charities.

For more information visit www.northwiltsholidayclub.org.uk