CHILDREN in Middlewich enjoyed a magical Christmas Eve as Father Christmas and his elves stopped by to read them a story.

Organised by local mums Julie Jones and Sarah Pearce, the sell-out event was staged to offer children and families a bit of festive fun before the big day.

This was the fourth year that the event has been held, and children were also able to enjoy a disco, indoor snowball fight, party games and Christmas crafts.

As well as this, those who attended each received a small gift and a goodie bay, and a fantastic £435 was raised for The Joshua Tree charity.

“The success of this event is largely down to the gracious donations and support from local businesses and we are once again so grateful for all that has been given, said Julie.

“Seeing the children’s excited faces when Santa comes in is so heart-warming and it’s lovely to have families coming out together for some festive fun on Christmas Eve.

Northwich Guardian:

“To also be able to raise £435 for The Joshua Tree, who support children and families after cancer treatment or bereavement, is fantastic.

“Knowing that the children are enjoying this lovely experience whilst also raising money for such important charity work is just terrific.”

Local father Tom Maddock, who attended the event with his family, added: “We’ve been coming to ‘A Story with Santa’ for the last four years and have enjoyed every one.

“As soon as December comes around, we all look forward to this event.

“It’s become part of our Christmas Eve tradition and as a family, we all love it.”

The events have collectively raised over £1,700 for local children’s charities including The Joshua Tree.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to the charity or seeking more information can visit its website at thejoshuatree.org.uk.