A group of friends from local pipes and drums band Piping Hot Cwmbran brought festive cheer to dozens of children as they hosted their annual Santa’s Grotto for charity.
Steve and Helen Parker, along with Jo and Helene Patterson, transformed Jo and Helene’s summer house into a cosy Christmas grotto. They welcomed 48 children to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their elves on Sunday 30 November.
Each child received a handmade knitted toy, crafted by Mrs Claus throughout the year, plus a chocolate treat and a 15-minute chat with Santa, who was keen to hear about their proudest achievements.
Now in its fourth year, the grotto has previously raised funds for The Alzheimer’s Society and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice. This year’s event raised £250 for St David’s Hospice Care, with donations collected in place of entry fees.
Steve said: “We like to think of our band as a community project, and it’s wonderful to do this for local children while raising much-needed funds for charity. It’s an exhausting day, but we love every minute of it.”