CHILDREN from different countries enjoyed a Christmas party with Santa in Widnes.

The International Family Club, Rainbow Umbrella, known as Teczowy Parasol, meets once a month to enable youngsters and their parents to get to know each other and integrate into the community.

Families brought a selection of food and games from their home countries of Poland, Turkey and Slovakia to St John’s Church hall for a festive celebration.

The mayor of Halton Cllr Alan Lowe, council leader Rob Polhill and Cllrs Eddie Jones and Geoff Zygadllo came along to meet members and find out more about the group.

Cllr Keith Morley, who has always supported the group, said: "I would encourage anyone who would like to join us or any families that would be interested to come along to our meetings. It is a very welcoming group.

"It was great to try food from different countries and share Christmas customs."

The International Family Club - Rainbow Umbrella (Teczowy Parasol) - meets once a month on Wednesday evenings, from 4 30pm to 6 30pm.

Cllr Marie Wright, another long term supporter, said: "The council has helped this group and it has some great volunteers who organise events each month.

“It's a great atmosphere."

The group meets once a month on Wednesday evenings from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

Children play together or do arts and crafts with Halton Council Children’s Centre staff.

Rainbow Umbrella leader Elżbieta Orlińska said: "Parents have a chance to chat with each other and exchange information about what is going on in Halton.

“It is a real support network as well as a social highlight. Our Christmas meeting is always a highlight.

"The children and some of the adults loved meeting Father Christmas. Wesołych swiąt to everyone in Widnes and Runcorn!"

For more information e-mail umbrellahalton@outlook.com or visit facebook.com/Umbrella-Halton.