Panto treat for Swaffham youngsters

The Chandler children, from Swaffham, were among scores of youngsters from across Norfolk who were treated to a special VIP Christmas present.

The Chandler children, from Swaffham, were among scores of youngsters from across Norfolk who were treated to a special VIP Christmas present.

Anglia Funeral Services arranged for 50 children who have faced a tough time in 2009 to be given a limousine ride to the Norwich Theatre Royal to watch Robin Hood and meet the cast backstage.

The families were nominated by various organisations, including bereavement specialist nurses at Priscilla Bacon Lodge, Nelson's Journey, local ministers and teachers.

The Chandlers were nominated by Christine Watts, 57, the headteacher at Litcham Primary School, who described them as 'a special family'.

Sharon Chandler, 46, was accompanied by her four children, Rosie, six, Zack, 13, Ross, 15, and 16-year-old Troy.

Mrs Watts said: 'I nominated them because they are a great family. Sharon looks after the children by herself and does a great job.

'She supports them all with no financial help and is a fantastic mum. The whole family are really deserving of this special day.'

Ross said: 'We are really excited about the limo ride, it made us feel really special. Our mum has been great, we love her lots and this is a really nice celebration for all the family.'

Anglia Funeral Services manager Phil Barrow commented: 'Taking part in this is very humbling. There are children who've been through terribly difficult times through the past year. These are the sort of youngsters who really deserve an extra special present this Christmas.'

'Each of the children has had a particularly tough year for one reason or another, and to be able to see the smile on their faces is amazing.'

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