MOST nations have their own way of celebrating Christmas with customs and food and there will be a chance for local children to taste each other's culture later this month.

Families from all nations, living in Halton, are invited to bring along Christmas food from their own countries and organisers hope to sing a multicultural Silent Night.

The festive fun takes place on Wednesday, December 18 at St John's Church Hall, in Widnes, with Father Christmas.

The International Family Club – Rainbow Umbrella – meets once a month on Wednesday evenings, from 4.30pm to 6.30pm at the venue, but this will be a special Yuletide event which also includes games and food from different countries.

Group leader Anna Ruchalska said: "There is such a supportive atmosphere.

"And I would encourage anyone to join us, or if you know a family that will be interested, please contact us by email or phone or come along to our meetings.

"It is a very welcoming group.

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

The Council has helped this group, and it has some great volunteers who organise events each month.

In the regular meetings, families of different nationalities, mostly from Poland, but also from countries like Turkey and Slovakia, living in Halton, meet up: the children play together or do arts and crafts with Halton Borough Council children's centre staff.

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

Treats for the children were provided by Krakow, the Eastern European food shop in Widnes.

Raffle prizes have been provided by Morrisons and Baltic Pearl restaurant.

More information is available from Anna on 07713255086.

For more info. email: umbrellahalton@outlook.com or log onto www.facebook.com/Umbrella-Halton, www.facebook.com/teczowyparasol