YOUNGSTERS at a children’s centre were given some festive cheer at a special event.

The Dame Vera Lynn Trust centre at Sproughton, which supports children who suffer from Cerebral Palsy, held a Christmas Party on Saturday.

The event was able to go-ahead after generous members of the public made more than �3,500 in donations to the centre following a break-in in which �137 was stolen from the venue’s Christmas fund.

Sara Baxter, regional fund raiser for the centre, said: “We had 30 children and their parents turn up for the party it was a great day.

“Father Christmas came along and handed out presents to the children who were thrilled to bits to see him.

“Everyone then enjoyed a meal which was laid on by local chef Jerry Bird from “Woodwards” in Needham Market which topped off the day.”

The additional money pledged by donators will pay for school trips and extras during the coming term. The charity have already been able to fit a new alarm at its premises in Burstall Lane and replace a camera which as stolen during the break-in.