THERE was plenty of festive cheer and a fair amount of excitement last Friday as members from Greenwood Park, Effingham and Avoca converged on Columbia Primary School to host a Christmas party.

The school, which caters for more than 600 pupils from mainly underprivileged backgrounds, was the scene of a talent show, a concert, and a mini Santa workshop.

Principal of the school, Prem Naidoo, said the children had a ball.

“This is the first time this has happened at our school. The members of the community came together and decided to do such a wonderful thing for the children. Every child has been given a specially wrapped Christmas present, as well as a meal.

“We also had face painting and a talent show, which went down a treat for the children. It was heartwarming seeing the children’s faces,” Naidoo said.

Kim Naidoo, one of the organisers of the event, said she hoped it would encourage other residents to give back to the local community.

“The children are excited and I couldn’t have asked for a better day. I hope this encourages others to pick up where we left off,” she said.