TODDLERS and parents got into the festive spirit by making paper-chains and Christmas cards in a Southampton church hall.

The party for Pipsqueaks parent and toddler group was funded with help from the Daily Echo and British Gas Cracker of a Christmas campaign, which handed out more than £1,200 between 20 good causes.

About 40 people, including 18 children, enjoyed the knees-up in Orchard Lane, which included a bubble machine, music, dancing and games.

The £50 donation from British Gas helped pay for hats, crackers, balloons, decorations and party packs for the youngsters.

Cindy Coe, one of four mums who runs the group, said: "It is really nice that a local company does something like this at Christmas."