For countless children in the 1970s, the festive celebrations simply wouldn't have been complete without the magical touch of the Daily Echo's annual children's party.

For many, it was a highlight of the holiday season, a burst of festive joy.

Shortly before Christmas, as decorations twinkled in windows, the excitement would build. The Daily Echo's party was a much-anticipated event, a grand affair that promised an evening of delightful entertainment, delicious food, and plenty of fun.

This wasn't just a simple gathering; it was a full-blown dinner, dance, and show designed to extend the festive cheer and create lasting memories for the local youngsters.

The halls buzzed with energy, filled with the excited chatter of children dressed in their best party clothes.

The air was thick with anticipation as they gathered for a veritable feast.

Rows of children, sporting brightly coloured tissue paper crowns perched atop their heads, would erupt in giggles as they shared corny jokes and traded the small trinkets found within Christmas crackers.

Once the feasting was done, the real fun began.

The dance floor became a whirlwind of activity, with children twirling and leaping to the music.

Classic party games like musical statues and musical chairs were always a hit, leading to much laughter and friendly competition.

A game of Musical Statues would see a flurry of movement as the tunes played, followed by a sudden freeze as it stopped. Children froze in comical poses, trying their best to stay perfectly still.

Then there was the frantic rush for a seat in Musical Chairs. As the music ended squeals of delight and groans of disappointment rung out as some found seats and others missed out.

And then, the moment every child eagerly awaited - a special visit from Father Christmas himself.

With a hearty "Ho Ho Ho," Santa would make his grand entrance, his presence filling the room with even more magic.

He’d take the time to chat with the children, listening to their stories and sharing a few of his own. And, of course, no visit from Santa would be complete without a gift for each child, a small token to remind them of the wonderful party.

The photographs captured from these joyous occasions, like the ones showcased here from the 1970s, offer a glimpse into these parties.