"My son wakes up in the morning absolutely loving the fact that he can come to Holiday Club," said Sarah James, whose child attends the Monkton Holiday Club.

The Holiday Club is held at Monkton Priory School for four weeks during the summer holiday and two weeks during the Easter holiday, and is open for 30 six to 10-year-olds from Monkton. As well as taking part in games and arts and crafts sessions, the club goes on trips to Manor House Wildlife Park, the Dinosaur Park, Clerkenhill Farm, Folly Farm, the cinema, the bowling alley and to the Leisure Centre to take part in sport. They also have regular drama sessions with local drama company, JC Theatre Company and drumming sessions with Bongo Clive!

The children love the chance to play with their friends, go on trips and play games. Sam Brown declared that he liked the trips, especially Clerkenhill Farm, because he can see all the animals! Many would be at home watching TV or on the Playstation if it wasn't for Holiday Club. "I would probably still be in bed!" said Maisie Wilson, "and be really bored!"

The club wouldn't be possible without support from Valero, who pay for the trips and activities, and a grant from the Welsh Assembly, which pays for four members of staff.

One mum explained that her daughter, Courtney, had been attending since the club began over five years ago.

She said: "The club is a godsend! At the moment parents don't have the money to take their families on trips, but the Holiday Club takes them to places, so they don't miss out. It also keeps them off the streets and even provides packed lunch!"

The lunch is provided by the Co-operative who give the Holiday Club Co-op vouchers to spend for the whole four weeks.

So with help from Monkton Communities First and the support of funders, the school and the staff, the Monkton Holiday Club gives local children an opportunity to have fun during the holidays, play with others and experience new activities.