In the 1970s, New Year wouldn’t have been the same for many local kids without the Daily Echo’s children’s party.

Every year, shortly after New Year’s Day, a dinner, dance and show would get underway to entertain youngsters and expand their festive cheer.

A full on feast was had and Christmas crackers were pulled, resulting in rows of kids wearing tissue paper crowns while cracking corny jokes.

Dance and games would ensue on the dance floor, with musical statues and musical chairs being regular favourites.

Santa would always drop in to have a chat with the youngsters and to present each of them with a gift.

The pictures on this page are from the party which took place on January 8, 1972.