Father Christmas dropped by to see children at Haven House’s annual Christmas party on Saturday.

The festivities were held at St Aubyns School, Bunces Lane, Woodford Green, and included a touring production of Theatre Bugs’ production The Toy Town Christmas.

The party was attended by a number of local life-limited children and their families who enjoyed festive food, face painting and a visit to Santa’s grotto.

This was the third time the school loaned its drama studio to the hospice for children’s parties.

Hospice chief executive Mike Palfreman said: “Christmas is a special time for most families, but it has an extra poignancy for a family with a life-limited child.

“We’re here to make the festive period as enjoyable as possible, for all our children and families, regardless of faith or religious background.”