Coronation Street star Simon Gregson spreads Christmas cheer in Shrewsbury

Simon Gregson, better known as Coronation Street's Steve McDonald, joined Made in Chelsea's Ollie Proudlock at Condover Hall for a Christmas party organised by a charity which supports the children of soldiers killed in action.

Scotty's Little Soldiers was founded by Army widow Nikki Scott in 2010 and the fourth party was held on December 2 and 3.

The charity supports children who have lost a parent while serving in the British Armed Forces and aims to help them smile again. More than 170 children were treated to an array of exciting activities including a live performance from upcoming boy band, New Hope Club.

They all had the chance to sample sweet treats with Willy Wonka and his Oompa Loompas, mix potions and cast spells with Professor Snape and test their secret agent skills as they traversed a labyrinth of laser beams.

And the excitement didn't stop there as each child had the chance to visit Santa in his grotto and received a gift to take home.

Simon Gregson said: "I've had family who've served in the armed forces so I wanted to help. Scotty's has been a part of my life for five years and it's very inspiring. Here, the kids know they are not alone."

The charity's founder, Nikki Scott, said: "This year's party was our best yet, every year they get bigger and bigger.

"Christmas can be a difficult time for children following the loss of a parent and the aim of the party is to provide festive fun and cheer.

"We were delighted Simon, Oliver and the New Hope Club could join us and help get the Christmas period off to a wonderful start. They all really helped make it a truly memorable day for all the children."

To find out more about the charity, visit www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk.