CHILDREN with Down’s Syndrome will be able to enjoy a Christmas party to remember this year thanks to the generosity of students at Oxford Brookes University.

Down’s Syndrome Oxford supports more than 150 children and adults with the condition and their families across the county.

It relies on donations to raise the £25,000 it needs every year to run speech and development groups, support and fun days out for families.

Each Christmas the charity throws a small party for the families of those it helps, which it has to pay for out of its modest budget.

But this year, the group will be celebrating courtesy of Oxford Brookes University, which raised £300 for the event. The university accommodation office asked students who live in shared housing to tick a box pledging £1. Donations were also given by local branches of Virgin Media and Tab Adverts.

Sarah Stevenson, 42, of Tweed Crescent, Bicester, said the charity had provided invaluable support to her son Jack, three, who has Down’s.

Mrs Stevenson, who is now group treasurer, said: “The work the group carries out is so valuable in terms of early development for children.”

Mrs Stevenson said the money would mean the group can afford a children’s entertainer, food, drink and music for the party in December.

Jules Banville, Brookes shared housing administrative officer, said: “This is the second year we’ve given money to this charity and it is such a worthwhile cause. We hope we will be able to continue giving money for years to come.”

The free party will be at Court Place Farm, in Marsh Lane, the home of Oxford City Football Club, thanks to club chairman Colin Taylor.

Mrs Stevenson added: “Every donation is so important for us to be able to carry on the important work we do. The Christmas party will give families a chance to celebrate together which is very important at that time of year.”

For more information about the group, go to dsoxford.org.uk