CHRISTMAS came early for some 100 children with complex health needs in Gwent as Santa and his elves visited the Serennu Children’s Centre in Rogerstone on Saturday.

The centre got into the festive spirit and, among others, there was a balloon modeller, face painting, nail art, a magic show and a puppet show.

All the children got a present from Father Christmas as well.

Now on its second year, staff were very pleased with how the party went.

Tina Davies, community children’s nursing team manager for Newport and Torfaen, said: “This is an event for the whole family – parents and siblings come as well.

“Events like this glue the team of nurses with the families while giving families the opportunity to enjoy the activities.

“Sometimes it’s difficult for them to access places with a wheelchair, for example. Everybody can come here.

“The families tell me ‘I’m normal, nobody is staring at me’ – which is really nice for them.”

Fran Watkins, 27, of the Gaer, was at the party with her husband and her two children, including three-year-old Felicity, who has had complications since having a cold earlier in the year.

Mrs Watkins said: “Felicity hasn’t started school yet and, here, she gets to be with other children.

“No matter what age or disability.

“She loves it here. Her favourite part of the day has been having her face painted and seeing all the nurses. It’s a lovely day.

“This will be our first Christmas with her poorly but I’ll feel so supported.”

Angela Mason, 57, of Griffithstown, was at the party with her son 14-year-old son Leon, who has cerebral palsy.

“It’s a nice day, it’s very well organised,” she said. “Leon loved the magician because he was funny.

“I like seeing all the siblings and families here.”

Zunera Batool, 26, of Maindee, was at the party with her whole family – her husband and three children. Her youngest child, who is two, has stomach problems.

Mrs Batool said: “We’ve really enjoyed it, the children have really liked the face painting and the show.

“It’s nice to be together, see other kids and talk with other families.”

Staff would like to thank everyone for their support and donations, including businesses such as the Tesco in Cardiff Road and Spytty, Newport’s Pandora, and Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel and Spa.

The Serennu Children’s Centre, which opened in 2011, provides care, treatment and activities for children and young people with disabilities and developmental difficulties from Newport, South Monmouthshire and South Torfaen.