CHRISTMAS cheer is being spread in Crofton thanks to the efforts of volunteers at the village community centre. A limited decoration budget did not stop dedicated staff members from creating their own winter wonderland complete with Santa.

After realising money was tight this year workers agreed to raise the funds themselves and set about creating a grotto at the community centre. Now thanks to their efforts youngsters will be reaping the rewards next week. Centre manager Nicky Rayner said: "The staff have made the whole of the reception area into a mass of Christmas lights, showing the people of Stubbington and Hill Head and the surrounding area what an inviting place the centre is.''

Father Christmas will give his seal of approval when he visits the centre next Monday and every day next week. Children will be charged just 75p for visiting the grotto that includes a small present to remember their day.