Thornbury schoolchildren were able to meet Father Christmas last month despite their annual festive day out having to be cancelled.

Thornbury Rotary Club usually fund a ‘Festive KidsOut’ day for the pupils of New Siblands School.

With Covid-19 scuppering plans for this year's trip, Rotarians instead ensured each pupil received a personalised gift from Santa.

New Siblands headteacher Carrie Osmond said: “I would like to extend our thanks to Rotary for helping Father Christmas provide the children and students of our school Christmas gifts in December.

"The students had the opportunity to meet Father Christmas in his socially distanced van.

"It gave them all a sense of belonging to our school community, in addition to keeping to one of our most loved school traditions, albeit in a way that suits these strange times.”

A 'Thank You’ card in the form of a montage of photos showing children meeting Father Christmas and receiving gifts has now been sent to the rotary club.

A national ‘KidsOut’ day is held annually on the second Wednesday in June and supported by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland (GB&I).

This event was set up to support the need and benefits of providing educational and fun activities for disadvantaged school-aged young people.

Thornbury Rotary Club has been involved with this event for nearly 20 years and, latterly, the ‘Festive KidsOut’ day since December 2018, when it was introduced.

During this time, the club has supported New Siblands School through contributions from local businesses and the Rotary Club of Thornbury Trust Fund.

For many years, Rotary has funded a day out at The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, for those students who are able to travel, together with school staff.

Educational sessions, guided tours and meals are provided. For those students who are unable to travel, therapy and fun activities are provided at the school premises, with a bouncy castle, donkey rides and a play bus.

While the ‘KidsOut’ event in June 2020 had to be cancelled, planning is underway to run this year’s activities in compliance with any necessary restrictions and in a Covid-safe environment.

Thornbury Rotary President, Barry Williams, said, “Although this year has been one of disappointment for me due to the stoppage of KidsOut in June, I have been involved in previous events and been humbled by the day and all who take part in this worthy commitment.

"It is without doubt the most rewarding activity Thornbury Rotary Club undertakes.”