Festive treats for children of soldiers missing Christmas

Published on Saturday 12 December 2009 11:11

HIBS and Hearts players joined pantomime stars to bring some festive cheer to children whose fathers are fighting in Afghanistan.

The youngsters were delighted when stars of Sinbad, featuring the Little Mermaid, turned up at the party at Dreghorn Barracks yesterday.

They also got the chance to meet four football stars, who chatted and gave away signed books and sports bags. Santa Claus also gave a gift to every child, many donated by generous readers and businesses as part of our Treat Our Troops – and their kids campaign.

Around 70 families attended the two parties, many of whom face Christmas without a husband, father or son. Families also recorded video messages for the soldiers, which will be put on a DVD and sent to them.

Johnny Stewart, a Hearts midfielder, said: "This is a great cause. It's nice to be able to put smiles on the children's faces."

Sean Welsh, who plays for Hibs, said: "We just wanted to help in some way. It's good for the families to get out, while their husbands and fathers are away working hard for their country."

Children sat entranced as magician Andy Johnston entertained them, while many had their faces painted with bright colours and glitter. Baxterbear also made an appearance, handing out dozens of the popular teddy bears. There was plenty of festive food, with cakes donated by Greggs.

Among the families was Ruth Wearmouth, whose husband Graeme is serving in Afghanistan. They have four children aged between one and seven.

She said: "They're missing him a lot. They say it every day, especially at bedtime. The older ones are a little bit more aware of what he's doing.

"He left in October, just after our youngest girl's first birthday. When he comes back in February, she'll probably have changed so much he won't recognise her."

Akanisi Kedrayate, 28, recorded a message for her husband Sam, together with their young children, Louise and Kenneth.

She said: "It's very hard if he doesn't call for a while, although we've been told sometimes the phone systems are down.

"The children miss their dad a lot, but they're very proud."