TWO kind hearted Vale fundraisers played the part of Father Christmas when they flew out to El Salvador to bring a little happiness to the children of the war ravaged country.

Bron Soan, who founded the Aid to the Children of El Salvador 28 years ago, made the journey with friend and fellow fundraiser Ruth Owen.

It was the 80-year-olds 29th trip to El Salvador and sees Mrs Soan take suitcases full of gifts for the children of the poverty stricken country to the home, AMOR, which is supported by her charity. Dr Owen made the trip for the third time.

They arrived in November laden with suitcases packed full of Christmas presents for the 70 children in the home established by Mrs Soan and run by local woman, Coralia.

Mrs Soan said: "Our arrival at the centre was very emotional with new friends and old of all sizes launching themselves at us before the official concert.

"They were absolutely delighted.

"Then I distributed the bags of items I’d collected throughout the year. Ruth followed me with glow sticks and two chocolates for everyone.

"We managed two trips, when they have an outing it's probably the only one they will get in their life.

"The British Embassy also came for the first time and gave the kids a bit of a party."

Mrs Soan first founded the charity 28 years ago after a visit to the country in 1986 left her appalled at the situation of many youngsters.

Sadly she says the situation is now even worse.

"As in the devil and the deep sea, here one is between the Maras or gangs and the mosquitos," said the former nurse.

"The Maras continue to threaten in virtually every community. We’ve already had brief acquaintance with them.

"The gangs continue to augment the membership with younger recruits and now forbid them to get tattoos, as in the past, to avoid identification. Sadly several of our ex-children have become involved.

"We are aware we are only there for a short time, the others have got to live it."

Despite the constant worry of the gangs and the threat of illness Mrs Soan said good things are happening too and there are plans to deliver a range of opportunities to the local people as well as possibly beginning an apprenticeship programme.

"I am certainly hopeful we can carry on in our present form of help for another year," added Mrs Soan.

For more information or to offer help or support to the charity visit aces-charity.uk.