MORE than 250 excited children and their families packed out a hotel venue for one of their favourite events of the year.

Most of the time the youngsters have to cope with illnesses or disabilities and are regular visitors to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton.

They have to deal with sometimes difficult and stressful treatment and some have to overcome difficulties every day.

However, every Christmas the hospital’s dedicated play team organises a special party to give people a chance to relax, let their hair down and enjoy themselves.

The popular event always attracts a lot of interest and is also open to siblings of young patients so the whole family can have a good time.

Play specialist Kate Woodhams said: “It is nice for parents to reconnect and share experiences with other people who know what they are going through.

“It’s also nice for the children to meet up and have some fun away from the hospital environment. They absolutely love it.”

The party is now in its fifth year and gets bigger every time.

Ms Woodhams said: “It’s become a real highlight. Throughout the year we get lots of people asking if we are doing it again and wanting to book a place.

“It’s great fun to do and so nice to see the families having such a good time.”

The party was held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on the seafront, which donated the use of the venue.

The cost of the entertainment, food and presents was covered by the children’s charity Rockinghorse, the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alex.

Attractions this year included a DJ, a bubble man, the Little Peeps, the Giggle Doctor and facepainting.

There was also a photo booth where children had their picture taken with Father Christmas before being given a present.

Among those attending were Talon Harding, 11, and Rosie Harding, nine, from Brighton, with their mother Kirsty.

Kirsty’s mum and sister and her twin nephews, who were born premature, were also at the party.

Rosie has problems with her knees and regularly sees a specialist at the Royal Alex.

Kirsty said: “It’s great fun to see all the children running around and getting a chance to forget about hospital for once. They can just be themselves and have some fun.”

Jane Parker from Eastbourne was at the party for the first time with her sons Charlie, eight, Henry, seven, and Freddie, four.

Freddie had his appendix removed earlier this year and had some problems with an infection.

Jane said: “I didn’t tell them we were coming and so it was a great surprise. They’ve really been enjoying themselves. It’s a great idea.”

Maisie Offen, three, from Brighton has had a difficult few weeks after developing seizures in November but she is now doing well and enjoyed the party.

Her mum Elizabeth said: “I didn’t know they did this, but when I heard about it I really wanted to come along. It’s such a lovely thing to do.”

Sammi Burns from Brighton also went along to the party for the first time with her son Rocco, four months, and daughter Ruby, two.

Rocco was treated at the Royal Alex for bronchiolitis and is now recovering well.

Sammi said she was very impressed how the party was organised and thought it was a great idea.