CHILDREN in the Durham Dales enjoyed a healthy Christmas party with Father Christmas as special guest.

Thirty children feasted on a buffet of fruit and vegetables and other healthy treats provided by the Durham Rural Community Hands on Heath Team.

The youngsters also enjoyed a treasure hunt at the party, which was held by the Durham Dales Primary Care Trust at Witton-le-Wear Community Centre.

Funding for the party came from the trust's charitable funds committee.

The trust joined forces with The Northern Echo, Wear Valley District Council and Northumbrian Water earlier this year to launch the Chance to Live Campaign, to promote healthier lifestyles.

Ken Ross, public health development specialist for the Durham Dales trust, said: "It was a fun way for children to taste healthy food and to get active.

"It is extremely important for young children to be active and take part in physical activity to give them a healthy start in life."