SPIRITS were high as children gathered together to create a happy memory.

Forward Facing is a Brighton organisation set up to provide activities for children and young people with long-term, life-limiting conditions and their families.

It invited about 100 children and their families to join in its circus- themed annual memory making day.

Children of all ages were dressed up in theatrical costumes and learnt a dance routine together.

Those involved were youngsters with long-term difficulties and their siblings.

Candice Konig, managing director of Forward Facing, said: “It has been all about making memories because you don’t always know what the future holds.

“The lottery funded this memory making day which we do each year and it’s always such a special day.

“I think we are one of the few, and perhaps the only charity, who not only make a difference with children who are limited because of their conditions or disabilities, but for the siblings as well.

“They can often feel left out when they have a brother or sister who needs care so this is about making them feel involved with their siblings”.

The children practised a dance routine before performing it for their families and friends in the afternoon.

The stage performance was filmed and will be shown later this year at the Duke of York Picturehouse in Brighton, as part of Forward Facing’s Oscar night, for the children to see themselves on the big screen.

Candice said: “My friend Tasleen Carstairs founded the charity and she would be so proud today.

“She passed away due to cancer and I told her I’d promise to keep it going so I quit my job and here I am today.”

Members of Brighton and Hove Albion attended the memory making day to show their support.

Laura Rafferty, 22, member of the women’s football team said: “It’s great to be able to come here and show our support for these really important community events.

“We also had Bruno Saltor, captain of Brighton and Hove Albion, coming down to show his support for the kids.

“It’s really special and it’s so nice seeing all the kids having a great time”.

Alison Faulkner, from Angmering, travelled to Brighton with her daughters Gracie, 11 and Edie, five for the circus fun.

She said: “Gracie has severe learning disabilities so it’s a really special day for her little sister, Edie.

“Having a disabled child in the family can have a huge impact on the siblings.

“Gracie doesn’t really partake in these sort of activities so well, but Edie just loves it, she’s so happy to be here”.

Trustees for the charity David Eglington and Jane Lodge also showed their support at the children’s memory making day.

Jane said: “Everyone has been enjoying themselves yet again at this event.

“Every year it just gets better and better.

“It’s great to be part of something that is going to be a lasting memory for the children and families taking part.”

David said: “The children just love it, they love getting dressed up and we have loved supporting such a wonderful day for them to all enjoy.”

The event took place on Thursday last week at the Brighton Dome.