A WEST Devon-based charity celebrated this week after helping its 10,000th child since its beginning in 1992.

CHICKS (Country Holidays for Inner City Kids) provides respite breaks for disadvantaged children across the UK, and this week, the charity welcomed its 10,000th child on one of their free countryside or seaside breaks.

The children on 'Norway Camp', held at the Moorland retreat in Brentor, were in for an incredible week to celebrate, experiencing activities such as horse riding, climbing, swimming and face painting as well as a visit from R P Barlow, the High Sheriff of Devon, who attended in all his regalia to impress the children.

CHICKS has seen huge changes from its early days starting out in tents in rented fields to now owning its own retreats in Devon and Cornwall.

On top of all their activities, the children are able to enjoy spacious retreats with sunken trampolines and wide open spaces to run around in as well as dining areas large enough to sit down to three-course home-cooked meals together.

The support does not stop after the camps as each child takes home photo compilations, certificates and small gifts as well as free post envelopes so they can write to CHICKS staff whenever they wish.

As well as responding to every letter, the children also receive cards on their birthdays and an individually wrapped present to put under their trees at Christmas.