CHILDREN from Preston's Callon housing estate were thrilled to be able to take part in an Easter Holiday Club.

The club, for youngsters aged eight to 12, was organised by Callon Care, a community development and family support project.

Children enjoyed activities such as arts, crafts, sports and games at the YMCA centre, in Samuel Street, which were funded by the Community Health Fund.

The youngsters had a number of prestigious visitors during the activity programme - including Preston's Mayor, Councillor Rose Kinsella, local firefighters and police officers.

The scheme was due to end today (Thursday), with a trip for the children and their parents to Docker Park Farm, near Carnforth.

Callon Care's project co-ordinator Sarah Riley-Evans said: "This holiday club is a direct result of requests from members of the local community, particularly the elderly, who feel children have nothing positive to do during the school holidays.

"We have encouraged local people to get involved in the planning and running of this club and, as a result, we have a team of parents and local volunteers who are committed to seeing this area improve, helping out every day."

Sarah added: "There are also a number of retired members of the community coming down to lend a hand with the club, which is an ideal opportunity for them to build bridges."

Callon Care has several other projects up and running, including a Credit Union Collection Point and an under-12s football league - the Callon Allstars - both of which are a direct result of expressed concerns by local residents.

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