Homeless children were treated to a slap-up party by Southend Taxi Drivers' Charity.

The 30 youngsters from the town's homeless centre and women's refuges enjoyed clowns and a disco before a tasty hot meal.

Tasty - Luke and Damion Baker have a great time at the party Picture: ROB BROWNE

Southend United put up Boots and Laces club, in Eastern Avenue, Southend, as a venue for this year's bash.

Brian Houssart, president of the charity, said: "They saved us more than £300 by letting us use the club."

Presents were donated by staff from local firms MK Electric and TXU .

Mr Houssart said: "Most of these kids have to live in one room so we just let them run riot for a couple of hours and they had a wonderful time.

"They all got a goodie bag and to see their faces light up as they opened the bags was just wonderful."

Published Wednesday, January 8, 2003

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