The Sugar Mill in Bourne hosts Christmas event for children with additional needs from the Bourne 2 Shine support group

Children enjoyed a special get together with the man in red to kick-start their festive celebrations.

Sixty-two youngsters were invited to a Snacks with Santa event at The Sugar Mill in Bourne.

They are all part of the Bourne 2 Shine group, which supports children with disabilities and additional needs. A gifting tree had been set up in the pub for people to buy Christmas presents for those who attended.

Group coordinator Lorraine Barnes said: “Snacks with Santa was a huge success. There was a sea of smiling faces and the children were having the most amazing time.

“We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who took a tag from the gifting tree and purchased a gift for one of our incredible members. There was such a great reaction and it was quite overwhelming.”

Lorraine also thanked staff at The Sugar Mill for supplying the venue and food, and volunteers Jayne Tindall and Debbie Carnell.

Bourne 2 Shines hosts a weekly coffee morning at The Sugar Mill for parents to chat. It runs on Mondays from 9.30am until 11am during term-time. The group also hosts a Tea Time Club for whole families at Escape Bourne.

In future Lorraine hopes to widen the group’s reach, offering activities in school holidays and sessions tailored for different needs.

Families wanting to access support can get in touch via the Bourne 2 Shine Facebook page or email bourne2shineuk@gmail.com

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