CHRISTMAS came early for more than 100 children at the South West Burnley Children’s Centre.

A charity event, organised by Action for Children, gave parents and children an early Christmas present with a festive party, attended by Father Christmas.

Staff dressed as elves for the day as they were handed presents from Father Christmas, who joined in with the party games.

Gillian Bostock-Kellar, practice team leader at Action for Children in Burnley, said: “The Christmas party brings the community together to celebrate. The area is one of high deprivation, with many families struggling to make ends meet and, for some, the party is a great opportunity for their children to see Santa and receive a small gift.”