SIDMOUTH Leisure Centre is playing Santa Claus this year, by offerinG working parents an early Christmas present in the form of Christmas Kidzmix playscheme.

SIDMOUTH Leisure Centre is playing Santa Claus this year, by offerinG working parents an early Christmas present in the form of Christmas Kidzmix playscheme. On 22 and 23 December whilst many mums and dads will still be at work but schools will have already broken up, the centre will be offering a full two-day programme of fun-filled activities as part of its Oftsed-registered holiday club.

Festive pursuits for the children will include Christmas themed arts and craft activities as well as party games, team sports and parachute play sessions.

Luke Tyler, Kidzmix co-ordinator for Leisure East Devon (LED), a charitable trust that runs a number of centres across the region including Sidmouth Leisure Centre, said: "The way Christmas Day falls this year means that there's an awkward couple of days between when school finishes and workplaces shut for Christmas"

"Christmas Kidzmix scheme is the perfect way to make sure that children have fun in the run up to Christmas Day, whilst parents can be safe in the knowledge that our staff are fully trained, CRB-checked and above all are there to make sure children have fun and are safe whilst doing it. Our autumn half-term club was a great success and children loved the mix of sports, games and crafts - our aim is to continue to offer a real mix of activities at Christmas so there's something for everyone."

The Sidmouth Kidzmix scheme runs from 8.30am-5pm and children of school age between four1/2 and 11 are welcome for either half days or full days. LED members or those with Passports to Leisure cards are entitled to special discounts and prices range from £5-£8.60 for a half day and £9-£14.10 for a full day. Although booking is not essential, LED advises that spaces are limited and pre-booking is advised in order to confirm a place and if you book before 16 December you will be given a 10% discount. For more information, call Sidmouth Leisure Centre on 01395 577679.

Sidmouth Swimming Pool will also be hosting fun swims, where children can have fun on an exciting inflatable, and for those interested in trying out synchronised swimming, there will be introductory sessions on 22 December. For more information, call the pool on 01395 577057.