SANTA S helpers got to work on Saturday to organise Takeley Community Group s Christmas party. More than 75 children turned up at the Silver Jubilee Hall to enjoy festive fun and treats and another 75 parents, friends and helpers showed up to lend a hand.

SANTA'S helpers got to work on Saturday to organise Takeley Community Group's Christmas party.

More than 75 children turned up at the Silver Jubilee Hall to enjoy festive fun and treats and another 75 parents, friends and helpers showed up to lend a hand.

"It was great to see the hall filled to its capacity of 150 people," said organiser David Woods who, being Scottish, wore a kilt for the occasion.

"We decorated the hall with a Christmas tree and lots of balloons and children kicked off the afternoon with Yuletide activities including decorating cookies, making fridge magnets, Christmas cards and Christmas decorations as well as making 2007 calendars."

After washing the excess glue, paint and icing from their hands the children then had a buffet.

After their festive feast the children then played games such as sticking the nose on the reindeer, and a Christmas treasure hunt before dancing to a mini disco. The event was held to increase the community spirit in Takeley.

The fancy dress competition was won by Amy Woods, aged seven, who won the girls' category for her Christmas tree costume, complete with lights, and took home the prize of a teddy bear and a trophy.

The boy's prize went to Danny Ross, also seven, who donned full dinner suit including a bow tie. He won a skateboard and a trophy.

Santa made a visit to the party where he handed out gifts to the children. The evening finished with a raffle, which included the prize of a fully decorated Christmas Tree. It raised £115.

Mr Woods said: "I have to say a big thank you to everyone who donated prizes and the money that enabled us to put on this event.