OVER Christmas a group of disadvantaged children from across the UK benefited from a free festive break with West Devon children's charity CHICKS (Country Holidays for Inner City Kids).

The residential breaks were held at the charity's retreats in Brentor and Par, and ran from December 22 and 27.

During this period the children, who had been referred by social services and other childcare professionals, had the opportunity to take part in activities such as ice skating, gingerbread making, a visit to the pantomime and much more.

On Christmas Day itself, the children woke up to find individual presents nestled under the Christmas tree and of course, a Christmas stocking full of goodies. After opening their gifts, the children enjoyed a traditional Christmas dinner and spent the rest of the day playing games and going for a walk.

CHICKS child supervisor Ali Hurley said: 'Christmas can be a difficult time for children who are living in poverty, suffering abuse or acting as carers for their parents.

'It was brilliant to be able to give these children time away from their problems at home to enjoy the magic of Christmas.

'We were amazed by the generosity of the general public and our supporters who helped us in any way they could.

'Some donated food and gifts for the children while our amazing group of volunteers sacrificed Christmas with their own families to spend it with the children on camp.

'We've already received many letters from the children saying what a wonderful time they had.'

One girl wrote in a letter: 'I had a good time at CHICKS because we all became a family and I loved it.'

For more information about CHICKS visit http://www.chicks.org.uk">www.chicks.org.uk or call 01822 811020.