CHILDREN in Harlow celebrated Christmas early after a surprise visit from Santa at their festive party.

The special guest attended Home-Start Essex’ Christmas party, delivering sackfuls of gifts to the children. The presents were donated by the Erith Group, which is working in the local area on behalf of National Grid. 

Members of the team from Erith, including site manager Gavin Craig who was dressed up as Santa Claus, handed out the presents to the children.

Home-Start has over 40 years’ experience supporting families. The charity provides a variety of services to young families by offering emotional and practical support, in their own homes, over the phone and in groups. As part of National Grid and Erith’s commitment to supporting the communities in which they work, the site team has been working with local organisations including Home-Start.

Claire Strudwick, community fundraiser for Home-Start Essex, said: “We were delighted when National Grid and Erith approached us to see if there was any way they could bring some Christmas spirit to the children. It was fantastic to see the faces of the children when Santa walked in!”

Gavin Craig, from Erith, said; “This is a wonderful way to engage with the communities in which we’re working. Being able to bring a smile to a child’s face has been very rewarding, and whilst we’re working in the local area, we hope to be able continue our support for Home-Start in a variety of ways.”

For further information contact National Grid’s Community Relations team on 0800 319 6165.