A GROUP dedicated to making families of all nationalities feel welcome in Halton celebrated Shrove Tuesday last week.

The International Family Club, Rainbow Umbrella, supported by Halton Borough Council, met in St Johns Church, Widnes, to enjoy Polish doughnuts and English pancakes.

The group made traditional masks, which are still worn in parts of Denmark, Lithuania, Italy, America and France, to make everyone equal during the celebrations.

Children who originate from Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania and Syria attended and joined in with the festivities.

Councillor Keith Morley, who has always supported the group and has recently become it's chairman, said: "We are always looking for more members.

"It is a very welcoming group and families from originate from anywhere and now live in Halton can attend."

During its Wednesday meetings, families of different nationalities living in Halton meet up for children to play together or enjoy arts and crafts with Halton Borough Council children's centre staff.

There are also opportunities for their parents to discuss useful subjects like healthcare, Brexit and education opportunities.

Rainbow Umbrella Leader, Elżbieta (Ela) Orlińska, said: "The meeting was good fun and it was nice some of the children came in fancy dress.

"I think the adults enjoyed making the masks as much as the children did."

For more information, contact umbrellahalton@outlook.com.

The next meeting is on Wednesday, March 27 at 4.30pm for a Mothering Sunday celebration.