The O-Zone nightclub was transformed into a Christmas winter wonderland yesterday for the 29th annual Special Children's Christmas Party.

About 300 people showed up for the event. "We fed them, we danced them, we gave them drinks," said organiser Mark Selley. Even Santa Claus attended the bash, pulling up outside on a fire truck, to the delight of all the party-goers. "Everyone was thrilled."

With Joel Cassidy on the bagpipes and food supplied by the Lobster Pot, the party was a success ? despite organisers facing several obstacles, such as transportation.

Many of the guests were ferried back and forth by taxis, an expensive endeavour, said Mr. Selley, who added that next year "if people find themselves available to transport for the party, please call me".

"Dedicated volunteers turn up every year," he added. "Without their help it wouldn't happen." One of those volunteers was his sister, Sue Kemp, an interior designer who managed to transform the venue from a night-club to a Christmas wonderland in just two hours.

Major sponsors the Bank of Bermuda and Pricewaterhouse Coopers also played a huge part in the celebrations.

Mr. Selley and other organisers contact all the homes and St. Brendan's, and advertise through the media every year before the party. "I have a wonderful time," smiled one party guest.