YOUNGSTERS who care for loved ones took some time out to celebrate Christmas.

Forty-nine children counted down to the festivities at the Eastleigh Young Carers' Christmas party, hosted by Eastleigh Football Club at its Silverlake Stadium.

Members of the club's first team also dropped in to meet them.

Attendees could enjoy an entertainer, have pictures in a photo booth, get their faces painted and win prizes in a raffle.

Children also got limited edition scarves from club chairman Stewart Donald that mark the club's upcoming FA Cup match against Bolton on January 9.

The stadium let the young carers use its facilities for free and significantly reduced the cost of meals.