IT was party time at Eastleigh's Leigh Road Recreation Ground as the town's Homestart family support group celebrated.

The organisation, which is aiming to recruit more volunteers, offers friendship, support and practical help to families under stress.

It is an invaluable service - as well as being a lifeline to many - which has been provided for the last ten years. Eastleigh has the biggest Homestart group in Hampshire and is one of the biggest in the country.

So there was much to celebrate as about 75 people got together for a family party day and a picnic in the park.

For the children there were lots of fun events including face painting, games and entertainment from a magician.

Firefighters from Eastleigh's White Watch pumped water into a paddling pool and party-goers inspected their fire engine.