A GROUP of sick children and their families were taken on a magical holiday to Euro Disney, Paris, thanks to local businesses.

The three-day break to the park, organised by the Thomas Ball Children's Cancer Fund, also benefitted from £12,000 donated for the special Christmas holiday by supporters of the charity. Donations were made by the High Wycombe Lions, Amersham Round Table, Great Missenden Rotary Club, the Misbourne School, Kingswood School and Prestwood first and junior schools.

Marathon runner Yvonne Wooster, from Prestwood, donated her sponsorship money; Great Missenden guides sold pancakes; High Wycombe couple Teresa and Gary Heawood held various events and Tricia Nicol, from Prestwood, gave up her birthday presents for the cause.

The children, all suffering from either cancer or leukaemia, were nominated by High Wycombe, the John Radcliffe and the Royal Marsden hospitals. Eleven families enjoyed a break away from hospital treatments with the much needed holiday.

Chairman of the Thomas Ball Children's Cancer Fund, Elaine Ball, said: "The first two days were dry and sunny, unlike the last day when the rain set in. But it didn't dampen the spirits of the children who all thoroughly enjoyed the magical experience."

To donate please visit www.thomasball.org.uk or call 01494 890157.