There were plenty of smiling faces as youngsters were given a rare opportunity to meet Father Christmas at Toftwood Social Club. 

Dozens of families attended the special festive event, which had not been held for several years. 

Dereham Times: The Grinch, Mrs Claus and elves at Toftwood Social ClubThe Grinch, Mrs Claus and elves at Toftwood Social Club (Image: Neil Hardy)

Upon arrival, children were greeted by a number of helpful elves, before a special appearance from the mischievous Grinch.

They then got to meet Santa himself, who called each child's name individually and generously handed them a Christmas present. 

Dereham Times: Smiling children with Father Christmas at Toftwood Social ClubSmiling children with Father Christmas at Toftwood Social Club (Image: Neil Hardy)

Those in attendance on Friday (December 16) evening enjoyed food, a raffle and dancing thanks to DJ Jordan Wilson. 

Neil Hardy, chairman of Toftwood Social Club, said the sell-out event had been an all-round success. 

Dereham Times: A child meets the Grinch at Toftwood Social ClubA child meets the Grinch at Toftwood Social Club (Image: Neil Hardy)

"We used to hold a children's party maybe 10 or 15 years ago, and we thought this year we would bring it back to life," he added.

"We had 53 children and their families come along and many of them were coming to the club for the first time."