Hundreds of disadvantaged and disabled children from across the region were treated to a day of festive fun at the annual Yorkshire Variety Christmas parties which were held in Leeds, Hull and Sheffield in December.

The youngsters were treated to a festive lunch, lots of entertainment including a magic show, balloon modelling and face painting and there was great excitement when Father Christmas made a person appearance with a sack full of presents.

This year’s parties were supported by BDO, Radisson Blu Leeds, Park Inn York, Hymers School Hull, QEGS, Ashdell Preparatory School Sheffield and Dekapak, Pontefract who donated 700 selection boxes.

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

Ian Leach, chairman of the Yorkshire committee of Variety, said:

“The Christmas parties are one of the highlights in our calendar and seeing the enjoyment on the faces of the children makes all the hard work worthwhile.”