WITH Christmas festivities in full swing throughout the county, some groups of children with special needs have made the journey to Worcester Snoezelen for their own parties.

At the Snoezelen, set up as a charity in 1993 in the grounds of Manor Park School, Worcester, they have been having fun in the hydrotherapy pool and romping in the soft play area and ball pool.

They have also been exploring the magical effects in the white and dark rooms, with their optic fibres, bubble tubes, projected patterns and touch-sensitive lights.

"While the children are playing, the mums can chat over a mince pie and coffee. It provides them with an informal support network and helps them not to feel so isolated," said manager Penny Bews.

"We've had outings for children in respite care and lots of special schools on their Christmas outings, as well as family parties and others organised by groups of mothers.

"There are so many leisure places for mainstream children, but not catering for the needs of these kids with very special needs."

Groups have come from as far afield as Hereford, Evesham, Gloucester, Bromsgrove, and the Diana, Princess of Wales Children's Hospital in Birmingham for their Christmas parties.

Each week more than 300 severely disabled children and adults visit the Snoezelen, which relies heavily on charitable grants and local fund-raising for finance.