CHILDREN listened to Christmas stories in Basingstoke Discovery Centre at a special festive event.

Dozens of toddlers and babies attended the story session in the Festival Place library and enjoyed hearing the librarians read a range of books.

They then joined in with some Christmas songs, including Away in a Manger and Jingle Bells, accompanied by actual bells which everyone could play.

The youngsters were then treated to a visit from Santa, who greeted each of them individually, giving out wrapped presents.

The children also had their photo taken with Father Christmas, by Basingstoke based photographer Ewa Jones, who captured the special moments on camera.

Councillor Seán Woodward, executive member for recreation and heritage at Hampshire County Council, said: “Inviting Santa along to our story time event at Basingstoke Discovery Centre has given our smallest visitors a day to remember.

“It’s always great to see parents and children getting the most from our community activities and enjoying opportunities to meet and make new friends.

“The story time session at the Discovery Centre is popular with a number of regular customers, and we really value their visits.

“I’m glad Santa was able to drop in and make this one special.”