CHRISTIANS in Poole have been supporting children and their single parents with a day of entertainment.

Smile Connect hosted the Lone Parent Fair at St James's Church, at Church Street, for nearly 50 families.

There were over 90 children kept entertained by Jules, the children's entertainer, and the chance to have their faces painted and take parts in crafts and outdoor games.

Some also took part in a gigantic game of Connect 4.

As part of the Lone Parent Fair, parents could enjoy some pampering with beauty treatments, manicures and hair cuts or simply relax while their little ones were cared for in the creche.

A family photographer was on hand to capture families during their special day out and the barbecue and food prepared by the Friendly Food Club team - who made soup and crepes - proved a real hit.

There was also help on hand from the Family Information Service which provides advice on everything from housing to money.

Alix Digby-West, Smile founder and Poole outreach worker, said: "This was a wonderful moment in Poole when things were turned on their head, where single parents became the most important people for the day, and where really professional services were given for free.”

One parent, who asked not to be named, said: “I’m still in shock so much was offered for free”.

Another lady said that the Smile project had been her ‘family’ since moving to the area recently, giving her access to a new set of friends.