Ref. 28156-34Father Christmas came early for children with Down's Syndrome in Swindon.

Santa dropped in to give out presents at the Swindon Down's Syndrome Group's Christmas party on Sunday.

About 90 children, parents and carers got into the festive spirit at the Gorse Hill Community Centre, with hours of party food and music.

Children's entertainers Razz- matazz added to the fun with an array of games and magic tricks, including some with live rabbits.

Jenny Brett, the group's secretary, whose four-year-old son Callum was at the party, said: "It's a day they all look forward to and, for some, it's the highlight of their year.

"The emphasis is on integration and the children with Down's Syndrome play with all of their brothers and sisters."

The Swindon Down's Syndrome Group exists to support people with Down's Syndrome, their families and carers. The group has 150 members, including parents and healthcare professionals.

It has been operating as a charity since April and must raise at least £20,000 a year to keep going.

Of this it spends about £14,000 on speech therapy and the rest pays for outings, training days and other activities throughout the year, including the Christmas party.