CHILDREN welcomed in the festive season on Saturday by singing carols for Witton Albion supporters.

The youngsters sang with their mums and residents from Chapel Street in Wincham at the social club before the match against Workington.

The carol singing was raising money for equipment for the play area in Chapel Street.

The campaign to improve the play area is led by Chapel Street residents Lillian Barton and Clara Dockney, who are hoping to see new equipment for younger children installed by next spring.

The Chapel Street children were joined by young Witton Albion fans for the carol singing.

“We sang carols for about half an hour in the social club, and everyone enjoyed it,” said Mrs Barton.

“People generously gave donations, and the event was important in raising the profile of our campaign to improve the play area.”

Mrs Dockney, who is well-known for her karaoke turns at The Salt Barge pub in Marston, said: “It was fun and very worthwhile, and we hope it helped people to understand what we are trying to achieve.”

The festive favourites performed included Away in a Manger, When Santa got stuck up the chimney, Jingle Bells and We wish you a merry Christmas.

Mrs Barton and Mrs Dockney have received pledges of financial support from local businesses, and a sponsored walk at Neumann’s Flash could be held in the new year.

In addition Cheshire West ward councillors Norman Wright, Don Hammond and Malcolm Byram have given £3,000 between them to Wincham Parish Council for the improvements from the council’s member budget scheme.