Nearly 1000 disadvantaged and disabled children (including carers) from across the region were treated to some well-deserved festive fun at the annual Variety, the Children’s Charity, Christmas parties which took place over three days in Leeds and Sheffield.

As well as tucking into a festive lunch, the youngsters enjoyed Christmas entertainment including a pantomime, clowns, a disco and a special appearance by Father Christmas who came along with a sack full of presents.

This year’s parties were supported by generation donations from Radisson Blu Leeds, Queen Elizabeth Grammar School Wakefield, Gripple and Henry Boot. Staff from Grant Thornton and Leeds Beckett University also volunteered at the events.

The Christmas parties are part of the charity’s Variety at Work (VAW) activity which take place throughout the year and aims to provide children with days out to remember and experiences to cherish.