Parents and excited children enjoyed an action – packed morning of festive activities at a new community group in Hitchin – formed after the previous one was forced to close through budget cuts.

The Family Matters community group to support parents and children has been formed by Charmaine Rogers in the wake of the demise of the Family Group, part of Home-Start North Herts.

Charmaine said: “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity along with my excellent team of volunteers and friends of Family Matters to offer practical and emotional support to families with young children, who may be finding life tough.

Councillor Judi Billing added: “I’m delighted to be associated with the effort and determination of Charmaine and her team to ensure this vital group could be re-established in the face of funding cuts from Herts County Council.”

Family Matters meets every Friday from 10am to 12 noon at Oughton Children’s Centre, Mattocke Road, Hitchin. Call Charmaine on 07469 681441 or e-mail charmainerogers@nhcvs.org.uk.